The Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) carried out an armed attack in the Shakardara area of Swat district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and has claimed responsibility for killing three people. The incident occurred late last night.
According to available information, Afzal Khan Gujjar was injured in the attack, while his son, nephew, and a security guard were killed.
Afzal Khan Gujjar, who is engaged in the automobile business, stated on Monday that he was returning home around 9:30 p.m. when approximately 35 to 40 armed individuals ambushed him. He said the attackers used both heavy and light weaponry during the assault.
He further stated that he brought the bodies of the deceased to the main road in protest and alleged that he had informed the police at the time of the attack, but law enforcement did not arrive promptly. He added that the assailants remained in the area until morning, set one vehicle on fire, and severely damaged another by gunfire.
Afzal Gujjar also asserted that he has no reconciliation or agreement with the TTP, arguing that if he had been the sole target, his son, nephew, and security guard would not have been killed.
On the other hand, Swat District Police Chief Muhammad Umar stated that an investigation will be conducted into possible police negligence, and if any lapse is found, legal action will be taken against the responsible officers.
He further noted that security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a search operation to apprehend the attackers.
The Swat tribal jirga has strongly condemned the attack.
In a statement, the TTP claimed that Afzal Gujjar was collaborating with intelligence agencies and police, and that his vehicle was targeted in a mine explosion. The group further claimed responsibility for destroying two additional vehicles and seizing a weapon.
The statement also alleged that Afzal Gujjar had been active since 2009 against the TTP and local residents, and that he had been involved in the killing of several of its members. These claims have not been independently verified.
Writer:Saeed Sameer
