Three Taliban were killed by a tribal lashkar in Bajaur Agency on Saturday. According to locals, volunteers of the Salarzai tribe set fire to eight Taliban houses in the Aundai area. Taliban attacked the lashkar and three Taliban were killed in the exchange of fire. Meanwhile, the residents of Mamoond have also decided to form a lashkar to combat the Taliban. The decision was taken during a meeting of tribal elders. A meeting of tribal leaders would be held on Sunday to devise a strategy against Taliban.
Afghan refugees started leaving Bajaur following a three-day deadline given by the local administration for them to vacate the agency, locals said.
Meanwhile, the residents of some parts of Mohmand Agency have started vacating their areas in the face of a possible military operation in the agency. Rumours of a military operation have spread rapidly after Eid. People have started vacating their homes in Yaka Ghund tehsil and other adjacent areas, where Taliban have been active for a few months.
The local families leaving the area said they were leaving their homes as they feared a massive operation after October 6, following a clash between security personnel and Taliban in Pir Qala.
Sources told Daily Times that the Taliban leadership had directed their supporters to trim their beards and long hair to avoid recognition. Beards and long hair have become Taliban hallmarks in the Tribal Areas.