Pakistan: Khyber, Tank and South Waziristan Hit by Fresh Violence
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PESHAWAR (Shamim Shahid) — Multiple security-related incidents were reported across Pakistan's northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Saturday, including attacks in Khyber District, Tank, and South Waziristan, highlighting persistent instability in the region.
Grenade and Gun Attack Targets Tribal Elder's Hujra in Khyber
Unknown assailants attacked the hujra (traditional guest house) of tribal elder Malik Naseer Ahmad Kukikhel in Khyber District, using a hand grenade followed by gunfire.
According to initial reports, the attackers specifically targeted the main gate of the hujra. While the explosion and gunfire caused damage to the entrance, no casualties were reported.
Malik Naseer Ahmad Kukikhel is the youngest son of the late tribal elder Malik Wali Khan Kukikhel, who was regarded as an influential figure among local tribes, particularly in the former buffer zone between British India and Afghanistan. Malik Naseer is also considered a close associate of Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) leader Manzoor Pashteen.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, and authorities have launched an investigation.
Five Killed in Gun Attack in Tank
In a separate incident, masked gunmen opened fire on a group of people gathered at a playing ground in the Nandoor area of Tank district.
According to preliminary reports, at least five people were killed, while several others sustained injuries. The wounded were shifted to nearby hospitals for medical treatment.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear, and no organization has claimed responsibility. Security forces and police have cordoned off the area and initiated an investigation.
Grenade Attack Targets Military Post in South Waziristan
Meanwhile, unidentified militants carried out a grenade attack on a Pakistani military post in Sararogha Tehsil of South Waziristan.
Initial reports indicate that the attackers used an F-1 type or similar high-explosive fragmentation hand grenade. The extent of damage or possible casualties has not yet been officially confirmed.
Security forces launched a search operation in the area following the attack.
Security Situation
The three incidents occurred within hours of each other and reflect continuing security challenges across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where security forces have been conducting operations against militant groups while sporadic attacks continue in several districts.
Authorities have not indicated whether the incidents are connected, and investigations into all three attacks are ongoing. No group has officially claimed responsibility for the attacks in Khyber District, Tank, or South Waziristan.
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