Amid alarming reports of a possible TTP resurgence, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police have provided assurances that the Swat valley is fully under control.
In a statement, the KP police clarified that it is aware of the videos circulating on social media and understand the apprehensions of the general public that Swat may return to the 2008-09 era when militants ruled the valley with their version of Shariah.
However, Swat is totally under the control of civil administration and all law enforcement agencies are ready to respond to any misadventure, the police added.
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Moreover, the statement said the peaceful society of Swat has no space for terrorism in any form and manifestation and added that the LEAs are appropriately placed and will resort to all possible measures to ensure peace in Swat as per the aspirations of the local populace.
TTP making a comeback in Pakistan
Earlier, reports emerged that militants are making a comeback in Swat. This is an alarming development as Swat was once the poster image for the Pakistani Taliban’s reign of terror from 2007 to 2010.
According to multiple reports on social media, militants are apparently back in Swat, that too with arms. Images of militants carrying Kalashnikovs are making the rounds on social media. It is believed that the militants are indeed from TTP.
Read more: Reports claim militants returning to Swat
As per reports from sources, over 400 militants have returned to Swat. The return of militants in Swat is raising concern as the area was previously a Taliban stronghold where TV was banned, public hangings were not uncommon, and girls were barred from going to school. The fear is that history will repeat itself with the TTP resurfacing. Questions are also being raised on how the militants were allowed to come back.
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Additional reports claim TTP militants have even established a check-post on the Balasoor Top, besides roaming in other areas of the Matta tehsil of Swat district.