Former deputy leader of the banned outfit Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) Maulvi Faqir Mohammad, along with five of his aides, was arrested on Monday by security forces while he was entering Pakistan from Afghanistan, Pakistan Today has learnt.
Sources told Pakistan Today that Faqir Mohammad was arrested by Khyber Agency security personnel. However, Khyber Agency administration is yet to issue a formal statement confirming the arrest.
The reports of his arrest came a few hours after two suicide bombers targeted Khyber House at Peshawar.
At least six persons, including three of security personnel, were killed in the attack and several others, including an assistant political agent, were injured.
Faqir Mohammad’s differences developed with Hakim Ullah Mehsud and his associates a few months ago. Due to these differences, Faqir Mohammad was first replaced by commander Dad Ullah from Bajaur Agency and later by Abu Bakkar. One year ago, Faqir Mohammad had backed dialogues with government.
Faqir Mohammad’s reported arrest or surrender may be considered a severe setback to the banned outfit.
Only a few days ago, TTP’s notorious commander Tariq Afridi had succumbed to injuries in Tirrah Vallay. Tariq had sustained injuries during a clash between rival militants three months ago.