Cracking down: Founder of TTP Darra Adam Khel chapter held

Zahir Shah was wanted in a number of cases of terrorism

PESHAWAR: Security forces on Thursday said they have apprehended the alleged Tehreek-e-Taliban Darra Adam Khel chapter founder from Peshawar.

According to details, the counter terrorism department (CTD) conducted an intelligence-based raid near Haji Camp, Grand Trunk Road area of the city. During the search operation, they arrested Muhammad Zahir Shah – alias Badshah.

Badhsah had been wanted by the authorities for a number of cases of terror attacks, kidnappings and extortion in the region and had been responsible for the deaths of numerous security officials, peace committee members in addition to damaging state property.

CTD officials said that Zahir had been associated with the TTP since 2004 and had been actively engaged in subversive activities till 2014. He had also founded the Darra Adam Khel chapter of the outfit.

Since then he had been involved in a number of terror attacks on security forces including a clash in 2010 with troops in Pastawani area of FR Peshawar which had left three soldiers dead.

In 2012, Zahir had attacked and killed Sanjab, a member of the local peace committee, in his house.

The next year, Zahir led 35 of his men in an attack on a Frontier Corps post in Zad. The attack, which lasted nearly four hours, left two terrorists dead including Sangari and Barakat Shah.

Later in 2013, Zahir and his men ambushed a security convoy near the Mattani bypass on the outskirts of Peshawar. The attack left five soldiers dead and five others injured while two vehicles were completely destroyed.

Officials further said that during initial interrogation, Zahir had admitted to extorting Syed Abbas.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 11^th,  2015.