The scenic Tirah Valley in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has become a safe haven for terrorism and drug trafficking. Militants have reportedly established bases in the region, exploiting its difficult terrain.
ARY News program Aiteraz Hai anchor Aniqa Nisar visited Tirah Valley, the central area of Khyber District, to report on the ground realities. The visit highlighted the growing security challenges faced by authorities.
Inspector General Frontier Corps (North), Major General Rao Imran Sartaj, provided a detailed briefing on the situation. He explained that terrorist groups such as Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan operate in the valley. These groups benefit from the drug trade, using it to fund their operations.
The IG FC emphasized the complexity of monitoring the region. The border stretches over 1,224 kilometers, with 717 kilometers under his responsibility. The terrain includes snow-covered mountains, lush green valleys, and narrow passes, making surveillance extremely challenging. Even from heights of 12,000 feet, a flowing water spring below appears as a thin line, highlighting the difficulties in patrolling the area.
Modern cameras and surveillance equipment have been installed to secure the region, but limitations remain. Major General Rao explained that anyone crossing the border must stay in the valley for food, rest, and shelter, effectively making the area a safe haven for illegal activities.
Addressing border security questions, he noted that geography itself prevents a complete sealing of the border. The fencing has created a new security landscape, but the Dwa Toi area remains the only significant entry and exit route.
The IG FC also recalled last year’s heavy losses in the Bagh Maidan area, with 64 soldiers martyred and 198 injured. These figures underscore the risks faced by security forces operating in the valley.
The DG ISPR has previously warned that if the growing nexus between terrorists and drug traffickers in Tirah Valley is not controlled, terrorism incidents could increase in Peshawar. Authorities continue to monitor the area closely, working to reduce its role as a safe haven for criminal activity.
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