Bajaur’s hidden lairs — terrorists dig tunnels inside homes

Terrorists use homes as hideouts, plan operations, put civilians at risk

Security forces uncovered secret tunnels and large weapon caches inside homes in Bajaur, reportedly dug and used by the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), also known as "Fitna al-Khawarij," to stage organised attacks against the state and civilians.

These terrorists used these homes as hideouts while planning operations, effectively putting civilians at risk. During a recent operation, these tunnels and weapons were recovered and presented to the public as evidence.

Underground tunnel network uncovered inside residential houses used by Khawarij militants ; Sources

Recent security operations in Bajaur have led to a major revelation: Khawarij militants had constructed a network of underground tunnels within local homes, using them as weapons… pic.twitter.com/KsoMUKn6H1

— War Analyst (@War_Analysts) October 1, 2025

Using civilians and their homes as human shields, authorities noted, is “an extremely cowardly and condemnable act,” highlighting the threat posed by such extremist groups.

Read: Four children killed, five hurt in Bajaur blast

Militant Activity and Operations in the Region

The ongoing security situation in Bajaur and surrounding districts has remained volatile, with repeated militant activity prompting targeted operations by security forces.

Between September 10–13, 45 terrorists linked to the Indian-sponsored Fitna al-Kharij network were killed in Bajaur, South Waziristan, and Lower Dir, while 19 soldiers embraced martyrdom during the operations. Weapons, ammunition, and other militant material were recovered, and civilians taken hostage by militants were rescued.

Local leadership has highlighted the enduring impact of militancy on civilians. Residents of Bajaur and Lower Dir have repeatedly protested rising lawlessness, organizing mass peace rallies attended by lawmakers, tribal elders, and thousands of locals, calling for decisive action against extremists while decrying the failure of past operations to restore lasting peace.

Read More: Thousands rally in Bajaur, Lower Dir

Intelligence reports further indicate the cross-border involvement of Afghan nationals in attacks against Pakistan, underscoring the transnational nature of the threat and the strategic complexity faced by security agencies.

Provincial authorities have also warned that uncoordinated operations, including drone strikes, could worsen the fragile security environment, urging that lasting stability requires community consultation and meaningful dialogue with Afghan authorities, rather than force alone.

These findings highlight that Bajaur and neighboring tribal districts remain heavily affected by militant activity, with civilians caught between extremist threats and counterterrorism measures, emphasizing the importance of coordinated security and local cooperation.