Authorities clamp down on movement in South Waziristan following surge in militant activity

SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: Authorities on Thursday enforced Section 144 in Upper South Waziristan and Lower South Waziristan districts, citing rising security threats and an increase in militant activity.

Deputy Commissioner Asmatullah Wazir confirmed that the restrictions in Upper South Waziristan cover the tehsils of Sarvekai and Sararogha from 6am to 6pm.

During these hours, all movement is strictly prohibited, and markets and commercial centres will remain closed. Key affected routes include Makin, Sararogha, Kot Kai, and Spinkai Raghzai up to Nazar Khel, as well as the road stretching from Dargai Bridge through Madi Jan, Sheen Warsak, Moley Khan Sarai, and Chagmalai.

Residents have been instructed to halt their vehicles at least 50 metres before security checkpoints and ensure that all passengers disembark if instructed. Authorities warned that violations would result in strict legal action.

In Lower South Waziristan, Deputy Commissioner Musarat Zaman announced similar measures in Wana. The curfew, effective from 6am to 6pm, bans all non-essential movement. Restricted areas include Wana, Tiarza Gate, Karb Kot, Tanai, Azizabad Chowk, and the route leading to Dargai Bridge. Emergency travel will only be allowed with prior approval from security officials and verification of identification documents.

Officials said the move is intended to preserve public safety, maintain law and order, and ensure uninterrupted operational and logistical movement of security personnel. Citizens were urged to fully cooperate with security forces and avoid unnecessary travel. Markets, shops, and commercial centres will remain closed during the enforcement period.

The South Waziristan region has witnessed a deteriorating security situation in recent months, along with a spike in terrorist activity. Earlier this month, Mehsud tribal elders and jirga members met the Upper South Waziristan deputy commissioner to highlight the lack of basic facilities and raise law and order concerns.

On November 10, 2025, the Cadet College in Wana came under attack by terrorists identified as Afghan nationals. They targeted the main gate and gained entry into the educational institution, but a timely response by security forces averted a major tragedy. All students and teachers were safely rescued, while the terrorists holed up inside the building were neutralised. The operation resulted in the martyrdom of three personnel.

Officials emphasised that the Section 144 enforcement is a temporary but necessary measure to ensure public safety, support counter-terrorism operations, and protect residents of both Upper and Lower South Waziristan.