The Battle for Bajaur will impact the future of Islamist terrorism across the world

The Battle for Bajaur will impact the future of Islamist terrorism across the world

By Kanchan Lakshman

Ever since militants of different nationalities began using Bajaur as a safe haven, they have transformed the region into a well secured fortress, constructing tunnel systems and trenches across the Agency. Network of tunnels have been discovered in the Taliban strongholds of Tankkhata, Rashakai and Loyesam, and sources disclosed to the Daily Times that "They [militants] would fire at the Forces from some house and then use the tunnel to escape the Army’s return fire." According to the report, "these foreigners were interested in renting houses by the roadside, and paid Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 25,000 in rent per month. The purpose of renting houses along the roadside was to attack the Forces if they launched action against the militants."

http://www.newageislam.com/the-battle-for-bajaur-will-impact-the-future-of-islamist-terrorism-across-the-world/war-on-terror/d/880

25 Taliban killed in fierce battle with Pakistani Security forces

25 Taliban killed in fierce battle with Pakistani Security forces

Officials said that a contingent of troops moved into the Loisam area, around 15 kilometres (nine miles) from Khar, the main town in Bajaur, late Wednesday to control militant movements between several districts. An officer from the paramilitary Frontier Corps said 300-400 militants, backed by local sympathisers, participated in the attack. They were mostly armed with AK-47 assault rifles, rocket launchers and grenades, he said.

“The firing continued the whole night, this morning reinforcements were sent. One vehicle was hit by an improvised explosive device on its way to the post and the convoy was then attacked by Taliban militants,” the official said.

http://www.newageislam.com/25-taliban-killed-in-fierce-battle-with-pakistani-security-forces-/war-on-terror/d/461

Latest fighting in Swat has left Hundreds Homeless

Latest fighting in Swat has left Hundreds Homeless

Saturday, August 02, 2008

Newspaper pictures show people streaming out of towns on foot, carrying essential belongings in small bundles. Some have no safe place to go to but seek only escape from the devastation that has ripped apart villages and homes. Similar displacements have taken place from Bajaur, South Waziristan, Kurram Agency and other areas of conflict. The economy of Waziristan, one of the more prosperous agencies, has been shattered. Fruit orchards and agricultural lands stand destroyed and burnt-out buildings mark sites where schools and shops once stood.

http://www.newageislam.com/latest-fighting-in-swat-has-left-hundreds-homeless/war-on-terror/d/400