A three-day curfew has been imposed in parts of Bajaur’s Loe Mamund tehsil as security forces launched a major counterterrorism offensive dubbed ‘Operation Sarbakaf’ against suspected militant elements. The operation, which began early Tuesday morning, is backed by gunship helicopters and artillery.
According to the Deputy Commissioner’s official notification, Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code has been enforced from 5:00 AM on July 29 to 5:00 PM on July 31, 2025, across 16 villages in the area. The villages under curfew include Bad-e-Siah, Tarkho, Irab, Gat, Agra, Khurchai, Dawagai, Kalan, Legharai, Kikot, Gilla, Nakhtar, Zarai, Dambarai, Amanata, and Zagai.
“All movement of individuals, vehicles, and traffic is strictly prohibited during the curfew hours to ensure public safety and prevent any collateral damage,” the notification reads. The order follows recommendations by the District Intelligence Coordination Committee, which cited increasing militant activity in the region in recent weeks.
Sources within the security forces revealed that the operation targeted known militant hideouts. At least four suspected terrorists were killed, 12 wounded, and around 10 others were captured alive, though official confirmation is still pending.
However, local residents and political leaders have raised serious concerns about civilian casualties. Eyewitnesses allege that two civilians, including a child, were killed, while eight others—among them women and children—were injured during crossfire between militants and security personnel. There are also reports that several homes were damaged after militants took shelter in residential areas.
The operation has sparked protests in War Mamund tehsil, where residents, including youth and activists, gathered to condemn the military action and demand protection for civilians. Political figures including MPAs Dr Hamidur Rehman, Anwar Zeb Khan, and former MNA Gul Zafar Khan have criticised the curfew and lack of prior notice, arguing it left residents without time to stock essential supplies.
The Bajaur Peace Action Committee held an emergency meeting demanding an immediate halt to the offensive. ANP leaders Aimal Wali Khan and Mian Iftikhar Hussain also voiced their opposition, calling the operation unconstitutional without provincial approval under Article 245 of the Constitution.
No official comment has been issued yet regarding the allegations of civilian casualties.