Waziristan Ground Operation Coverage (Pakistan November 2009)

The Critical Threats team has amassed here all of our coverage on the ongoing ground operation in Waziristan for the month of November (for previous coverage of October, click here). Please check back for frequent updates.

map of Areas of Militant Influence in Waziristan

The Critical Threats team has prepared a briefing analyzing the ongoing ground operation in Waziristan following the conclusion of its first phase and the end of major combat operations.
The briefing looks at the timeline of events leading to the operation, the Pakistani force breakdown, the Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) structure and key players, the role of other players, the details of the fight on each of the three fronts on a week-by-week basis, an analysis of the factors contributing to the military's quick progress, a breakdown of the thee main phases of the operation, a look at recent militant attacks conducted outside the theater of operations and polling data analyzing Pakistani public opinion regarding militancy and the military operation one month after its commencement.

To find our key conclusions and the link to the full presentation CLICK HERE.

Situation Updates: 

Day Thirty-Three of Operation- November 18, 2009

• Security forces continue their offensive for the thirty-third day into South Waziristan Agency (SWA) in pursuit of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Mehsud tribal areas. The Army now claims to be in control of eighty percent of South Waziristan and reports that it has consolidated forces on the three axes (ISPR).    

• The Army released a statement that in the last twenty-four hours six militants have been killed and eight soldiers were injured. Press-restrictions on the area have made it impossible to confirm the number of deaths (ISPR).    

• The government reports that security forces continue their three-pronged incursion into the Mehsud tribal areas of South Waziristan. All of the major cities and towns are now reported as under control by the government forces (ISPR).    

  • Jandola-Sara Rogha Axis: Three soldiers were injured from an IED blast when security forces patrolled the Jandola-Chagmalai-Siplatoi route. A large amount of weapons and ammunition, including a 12.7 mm gun, were recovered during the sanitization of Adire Mela and Khazhankai. Security forces met at Point 1694 and Janata (ISPR).     

  • Shakai-Ladha/Kaniguram Axis: Six militants were killed and multiple soldiers injured when militants attacked security forces with small arms near Kund Mela at Kidney Ridge (ISPR).    

  • Razmak-Makeen Axis: A large number of weapons and ammunition were seized at China and security forces undertook search operations at Lita Sar and Blankai Sar (ISPR).          
    

• In the Swat-Malakand operation, four suspects were detained during operations at Kalam and Manglor and four others surrendered to security forces at Charbagh (ISPR).  
  

• The military says it has intercepted communications that suggest there are large numbers of Uzbeks and Arabs in South Waziristan. Arabic training manuals and Jihadi literature were also discovered at training centers in Ladha (DAWN).     

• The first phase of the conflict is expected to end before the end of November but the military will remain involved in the area for months to come (DAWN).   

• Over twelve thousand cash cards have been given to IDP families. Some reports suggest that over 300,000 left Waziristan to avoid the violence (ISPR, DAWN).        

Day Thirty-Two of Operation- November 17, 2009

• Security forces continue their offensive for the thirty-second day into South Waziristan Agency (SWA) in pursuit of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Mehsud tribal areas. The Army now claims to be in control of eighty percent of South Waziristan and reports that it has consolidated forces on the three axes (AFP, ISPR, Reuters).   

• The Army does not report any casualties on either side in the last forty-eight hours (ISPR).    

• The government reports that security forces continue their three-pronged incursion into the Mehsud tribal areas of South Waziristan.  All of the major cities and towns are now reported as under control by the government forces (AFP, ISPR).  
  

  • Jandola-Sara Rogha Axis: Security forces discovered six IEDs and a number of weapons during a sanitization operation in Khazhikai and Shuza Sar. Point 1665 has been secured by Pakistiani military forces and Sara Rogha has been cleared. Some reports suggest “a large number” of Uzbeks were killed in Sara Rogha on Tuesday. A total of seven soldiers and one hundred and eighty militants were killed in the battle to secure Sara Rogha. Fighting has been reported in Janata (ISPR, GEO).  

  • Shakai-Ladha/Kaniguram Axis: Forces have consolidated positions at Ghundai Gur, Takrai Sar, Sultana, Pungai, Ladha Fort and Bangal Khel and a large amount of weapons were seized during search operations at Gani Khel, Khaikaeh Narai. A tunnel was destroyed during a compound search in Torwam and militants fired rockets at security forces at Asman Manza and Kaniguram (ISPR).     
    

  • Razmak-Makeen Axis: Forces are reinforcing positions on this axis and have cleared Blanki Sar. During clearance operations, six bunkers were found and destroyed (ISPR).   
    

• In the Swat-Malakand operation, security forces found three tunnels at Bar Sardan and detained two suspects at Charbagh and Nawan Killi. Another suspected militant surrendered to security forces at Tiligram (ISPR).  

• A number of reporters were flown into Sara Rogha to view the battlefield and interview field commanders. This is one of the first times press has been allowed to visit the area. The commanders told reporters that after securing all the towns they will move out into the rural areas to pursue the fleeing militants. Major General Abbas also said that the military has cut off the militant’s food and supply lines (AFP, GEO, Reuters). 

• One person was killed and several injured during the latest attack against a police chief in Quetta. The IED was concealed in a motorbike outside of the Deputy Inspector General’s office. Three other suspected suicide bombers were arrested in Quetta (DAWN, AP, DAWN).

Day Thirty-One of Operation- November 16, 2009

• Security forces continue their offensive for the thirty-first day into South Waziristan Agency (SWA) in pursuit of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Mehsud tribal areas. The Army now claims to be in control of eighty percent of South Waziristan and reports that it has consolidated forces on the three axes (ISPR).    

• The Army does not report any casualties on either side in the last twenty-four hours (ISPR).     

• The government reports that security forces continue their three-pronged incursion into the Mehsud tribal areas of South Waziristan. All of the major cities and towns are now reported as under control by the government forces.

  • Jandola-Sara Rogha Axis: Important heights around Janata have been secured and security forces are currently clearing Khazhikai and Adira Mela (ISPR).           

  • Shakai-Ladha/Kaniguram Axis: The road between Ladha and Takrai Sar has been cleared and search operations were undertaken at Takrai Sar, Totai Langar Khel and Sultana. Rocket and small arms fire was reported at Lundai Nur and Point 6954. Troops discovered and destroyed a tunnel at Sultana and a training center near Takrai Sar (ISPR).                              
    

  • Razmak-Makeen Axis: The villages of Kum Narakai near Makeen and Spina Mela near Razmak have been cleared and a house-to house search is underway in Kam Narakai. Eight IEDs have been neutralized and weapons seized. Forces have made visual contact with other security forces at Ladha near Spina Mela. Security forces are continuing to consolidate forces near Ghariam and Dosali (ISPR).                     
    

• In the Swat-Malakand operation, four militants were killed during a search operation in Roria and four other militants were arrested at Tiligram (ISPR).                       

• A suicide bomber in a pickup truck killed four people near Peshawar and wounded dozens. The attack occurred near a police station. This is the fifth suicide bombing to occur in the area around Peshawar in the last eight days (DAWN, BBC).

• Nearly twelve thousand cash cards have been given to IDP families (ISPR).  

Day Thirty of Operation- November 15, 2009

• Security forces continue their offensive for the thirtieth day into South Waziristan Agency (SWA) in pursuit of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Mehsud tribal areas. The Army now claims to be in control of eighty percent of South Waziristan (ISPR).          

• The Army released a statement that in the last twenty-four hours five militants have been killed. Press-restrictions on the area have made it impossible to confirm the number of deaths (ISPR).         

• The government reports that security forces continue their three-pronged incursion into the Mehsud tribal areas of South Waziristan. All of the major cities and towns are now reported as under control by the government forces (ISPR).         

  • Jandola-Sara Rogha Axis: Search operations were undertaken at Ahmedwam and five militants were killed. Clearance operations were carried out at Shahvzai, Khaznikai and Udin Sar (ISPR, The News).       

  • Shakai-Ladha/Kaniguram Axis: A large number of weapons were seized during a search operation near Tiarza. Security forces have secured Khaisur Killay, Ahmad Gul Killay, and Michi Khel Killay(ISPR, The News).             
    

  • Razmak-Makeen Axis: Four IEDs were disabled on the road to Ladha Bridge and the bridge itself was cleared. A number of weapons and ammunition were also discovered on the route. A checkpoint was put in place at Shah Wali Algad and security forces have finished consolidation around Tauda China and searched Kam Narakai. Militants fired rockets from a position near Wuchoba village and security forces say they “effectively responded.”  A heavy clash with militants has been reported in the Marobi Raghza area in Makeen (ISPR, The News).                
    

• Eleven suspected militant positions were bombed in Orakzai Agency. Reports suggest that eighteen militants were killed while nearly a dozen sustained injuries (The News).

• Political administration officials told The News that security forces were searching suspected militant hideouts in Sara Rogha, Angar Killay and Wucha Khwar and also carrying out search operations in Shah Wazai, Kazha Kach and Tora Teeka. Military aircraft have also targeted TTP positions in Piazha and Wuzi Kach (The News).      

• In the Swat-Malakand operation, security forces killed twelve militants and arrested two during search operations in Karakar Banda, Ilam Saand, Ashar Banr, Shalpin and Gari Shamozai. Seven militants surrendered at Charbagh, Roria and Zara Khela (ISPR).       

• It is reported that the residents of South Waziristan have all left the area for “safer places in districts of Tank and Dera Ismail Khan and the neighboring tribal agency of North Waziristan” (The News).          

Day Twenty-Nine of Operation- November 14, 2009

• Security forces continue their offensive for the twenty-ninth day into South Waziristan Agency (SWA) in pursuit of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Mehsud tribal areas. The Army now claims to be in control of eighty percent of South Waziristan (ISPR, The News).

• The Army released a statement that in the last twenty-four hours seven militants have been killed and four soldiers have been injured. Press-restrictions on the area have made it impossible to confirm the number of deaths (ISPR, The News).

• The government reports that security forces continue their three-pronged incursion into the Mehsud tribal areas of South Waziristan. All of the major cities and towns are now reported as under control by the government forces (ISPR, The News).

  • Jandola-Sara Rogha Axis: Three soldiers were injured during a clash at Ahmedwam and forces have cleared the area around Madike, east of Ahmedwam. They also report that they have secured Point 1663 at Pamonkai Raghzai (ISPR, The News).   

  • Shakai-Ladha/Kaniguram Axis: Security forces have completely cleared Bangal Khel, Sultana, Narakai and Totai Langar Khel. During operations they recovered a large number of weapons and ammunition. Four militants were killed during operations to secure Takrai Sar, south of Marobi Raghza and north east of Ladha. A number of “propaganda CDs, maps, passports and miscellaneous photos” were recovered during a search of militant commander Dr. Nasrullah’s house in Khaisura (ISPR, The News).    
    

  • Razmak-Makeen Axis: Forces on this axis have linked up with forces moving north from Ladha-Kaniguram axis. Three militants were killed and one soldier injured during an operation to secure the road from Makeen to Lattaka Narai. Six IEDs were defused while security forces consolidate positions around Ghariam and Mir Khoni (ISPR, The News).       
    

• In the Swat-Malakand operation, the ISPR Press Releases says four suspected militants were detained at Goranai and Tiligram. And two other militants surrendered at Bodigram and Kabbal. DAWN reports that up to fifteen militants were killed and a large weapons cache was seized near Mangaltan. Three commanders are believed to be among the dead (ISPR, DAWN).      

• Nineteen militants were killed when the Pakistani Air Force carried out airstrikes in Orakzai and Kurram agencies. Other hideouts and vehicles were destroyed, including in the Dogar area. Sources tell The News that the military has increased its air strikes in recent days (The News).

• Chief of Army Staff, General Kayani made another visit to South Waziristan. This time he traveled to the newly captured areas of Sara Rogha and Ladha. While on the ground he applauded his officers and field commanders on their success in the operation. He also visited IDP camps in Dera Ismail Khan (ISPR, The News).

• Twelve people were killed when a suicide bomber exploded his vehicle at a police checkpoint in Peshawar. The explosion occurred near the Ring Road and Bara Road intersection. Thirty others were injured. This is the fourth suicide bombing in the last week (DAWN, BBC, The News).

• Over eleven thousand cash cards have been given to IDP families. General Kayani assured IDPs that he would make preparations for all IDPs to return to their homes in South Waziristan and that development programs will be undertaken by the military (ISPR).

Day Twenty-Eight of Operation- November 13, 2009

• Security forces continue their offensive for the twenty-eighth day into South Waziristan Agency (SWA) in pursuit of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Mehsud tribal areas. The Army now claims to be in control of eighty percent of South Waziristan (ISPR, The News).    

• The Army released a statement that in the last twenty-four hours six militants and twelve soldiers have been killed. Ten soldiers succumbed to their injuries today from previous days fighting at Langar Khel. Press-restrictions on the area have made it impossible to confirm the number of deaths (ISPR, The News).    

• The government reports that security forces continue their three-pronged incursion into the Mehsud tribal areas of South Waziristan. All of the major cities and towns are now reported as under control by the government forces (ISPR).    

  • Jandola-Sara Rogha Axis: Six militants and two soldiers were killed during a battle at Ahmedwam. Security forces secured Point 5376 north of Ahmedwam and have begun clearing Khawasai (ISPR, The News).    

  • Shakai-Ladha/Kaniguram Axis: Weapons and ammunition were seized during search operations near Torwam (ISPR).                

  • Razmak-Makeen Axis: Security forces have set up a road block at Shah Wali Algad and cleared and secured the area from Makeen to Marobi Raghzai as well as Rogha and Mir Khoni. Militants fired rockets at security forces in Razmak Camp and Laghar Manza (ISPR, The News).    

• In the Swat-Malakand operation, security forces have detained “wanted terrorist” Qamar Ali at Shangle and security forces detained three other militants during search operations at Shalpin, Amankot and Ghalagai (ISPR, The News).    

• At least twelve people were killed and dozens injured during a suicide car bomb attack on Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence Agency (ISI) in Peshawar. The explosion destroyed a three story building that housed the intelligence officers. Another five people were killed when a car bomb exploded at the Baka Khel police station (BBC, DAWN).

• US National Security Advisor General Jim Jones met with General Kayani at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi to discuss “matters of mutual interest” (ISPR).    
  

• The military reports that nearly eleven thousand cash cards have been given to IDP families (ISPR).              

 

MAP OF CONFLICT AREA IN SOUTH WAZIRISTAN - DAY TWENTY-SEVEN - November 12, 2009

Day Twenty-Seven of Operation- November 12, 2009

 

• Security forces continue their offensive for the twenty-seventh day into South Waziristan Agency (SWA) in pursuit of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Mehsud tribal areas (ISPR, DAWN, The News, AFP).

• The Army released a statement that in the last twenty-four hours security forces have killed twenty-two militants while five soldiers were killed and eight injured during the fighting. (Ten soldiers wounded during an engagement with militants in Langar Khel on November 12 died from their wounds on November 13) This has been described as “the deadliest day” since the beginning of the operation and some reports say up to seventeen soldiers were killed.  According to government press releases, a total of five hundred and twenty-three militants and fifty-three soldiers have been killed during the operation. Press-restrictions on the area have made it impossible to confirm the number of deaths (ISPR, ISPR, DAWN, The News, AFP).

• The government reports that security forces continue their three-pronged incursion into the Mehsud tribal areas of South Waziristan. All of the major cities and towns are now reported as under control by the government forces (ISPR, DAWN, The News).

  • Jandola-Sara Rogha Axis: Security forces killed five militants during search and clearance operations at Ghara Sar. One soldier was also wounded during the operation. A bomb killed two Pakistani soldiers in Sara Rogha (ISPR, The News, AFP).

  • Shakai-Ladha/Kaniguram Axis: A large number of weapons and ammunition were recovered during search operations at Ladha, Satta, Mangora Sar, Narakai, Gulit Killi, Torwam and Shabi Khel. Fourteen militants and fifteen soldiers were killed during operations in Langar Khel. Political administration officials told The News that the road from Ladha to Wana has been cleared of landmines and IEDs and forces are security forces are currently clearing the Ladha to Makeen road (ISPR, The News).

  • Razmak-Makeen Axis: Security forces are moving south of Makeen and are securing Darra Algad. A checkpoint has been made on the Zahidullah-Ghariam road and three militants were killed while forces secured village Rogha (ISPR, DAWN, AFP).

• In the Swat-Malakand operation, eight suspected militants were detained in operations at Qundil. Two other militants surrendered at Fazal Banda and Yakhtangi (ISPR).

• Locals told The News that government officials were holding talks with tribal elders from the area to discuss “the repatriation of the displaced people to their respective areas” and that government officials have told the elders they can return to the cleared areas (The News).

• Seven suspected militants were arrested in Karachi on Thursday.  The suspects are believed to be members of the TTP and were arrested after a shootout. A number of weapons and explosives were recovered including two suicide vests (Reuters).

 

MAP OF CONFLICT AREA IN SOUTH WAZIRISTAN - DAY TWENTY-SIX - November 11, 2009

Day Twenty-Six of Operation- November 11, 2009

• Security forces continue their offensive for the twenty-sixth day into South Waziristan Agency (SWA) in pursuit of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Mehsud tribal areas. The offensive is “now mostly focused on consolidation of troops’ positions in and around the Taliban strongholds of Makeen, Ladha and (Sara Rogha).” The Army is now in control of eighty percent of South Waziristan (ISPR, The News, BBC).

• The Army released a statement that in the last twenty-four hours security forces have killed seven militants and two soldiers were injured in the fighting. According to government sources the total number of militants killed in the operation is believed to be almost five hundred. Press-restrictions on the area have made it impossible to confirm the number of deaths (ISPR, The News).

• The government reports that security forces continue their three-pronged incursion into the Mehsud tribal areas of South Waziristan. All of the major cities and towns are now reported as under control by the government forces (ISPR, The News, DAWN).           
  

  • Jandola-Sara Rogha Axis: Militants fired rockets from Ahmedwam to Sara Rogha but not deaths were reported. Security forces continue to consolidate forces around controlled areas (ISPR, The News).

  • Shakai-Ladha/Kaniguram Axis: Kaniguram is officially reported as “searched and cleared.” During search operations security forces discovered a number of tunnels and weapons. A large number of weapons and IED material was also seized at Torwam and Ghani Khel. Security forces are also conducting thorough search operations at seized territory throughout the axis. Operations have been reported near Ladha at Faqir Koroona and Siga village and a large number of weapons were recovered in the Boya Narai area (ISPR, The News).

  • Razmak-Makeen Axis: an “intense fire exchange” occurred at a checkpoint at Fort Knoll resulting in the injury of two soldiers and the death of seven militants. Forces continue to carry out search operations in Makeen and a number of weapons, ammunition and explosives were recovered near the city (ISPR, DAWN).          
    

• In the Swat-Malakand operation, three militants were detained during search operations in Manglour, Mingora and three other militants surrendered to government troops at Chuprial, Dagai and Kabbal (ISPR).

• The death toll in Tuesday’s attack in Charsadda has risen to thirty-two people as the market goes on a three day strike in protest for the lack of security (BBC).  

• A system of tunnels equaling half a kilometer long were found in Kaniguram in the areas of Kari Kamar, Char Chobai, Mohmand Kamar, Roghpal, Panrai Kamar, Manzai and Mirza Begai (The News, DAWN).            

• The Pakistani military continues to use aircraft to target TTP positions. The News reports that four militant positions were destroyed at Shaktoi (The News).

• Nine Pakistani soldiers were killed on Wednesday when an IED struck a military convoy in Mohmand. Two other soldiers were killed during an armed attack on an outpost the same day (AP, AFP).

• Over ten-thousand cash cards have been given to IDP families (ISPR).

 

MAP OF CONFLICT AREA IN SOUTH WAZIRISTAN - DAY TWENTY-FIVE - November 10, 2009

Day Twenty-Five of Operation- November 10, 2009

• Security forces continue their offensive for the twenty-fifth day into South Waziristan Agency (SWA) in pursuit of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Mehsud tribal areas. Security forces are continuing to conduct search and clearance operations in seized territory (ISPR).      
  

• The Army released a statement that in the last twenty-four hours security forces have killed nine militants and detained one. According to government sources the total number of militants killed in the operation is believed to be almost five hundred. Press-restrictions on the area have made it impossible to confirm the number of deaths (ISPR, Reuters).    

• The government reports that security forces continue their three-pronged incursion into the Mehsud tribal areas of South Waziristan. All of the major cities and towns are now reported as under control by the government forces (ISPR, DAWN).           
  

  • Jandola-Sara Rogha Axis: Clearance operations are being conducted at Sarai Ghundaka, Kandao, Spinkai, and Zeriwam and the government reports that Tsappara is secure (ISPR, DAWN).          
    

  • Shakai-Ladha/Kaniguram Axis: Five militants were killed during search and clearance operations north of Ladha. Security forces have found and destroyed a network of caves, bunkers, observation posts and even a private jail near Bangal Khel (ISPR, DAWN).          
    

  • Razmak-Makeen Axis: One militant was detained and four killed during search operations in Tauda China and Fort Knoll. Weapons and ammunition were also recovered during the operation. Security forces are conducting “area domination, clearance and consolidation” operations on the Razmak-Makeen axis (ISPR, DAWN).               
    

• In the Swat-Malakand operation, nine militants surrendered to Pakistani military officials at Maindam, Lakhar and Kabbal. Four other militants were detained in operations in Roria and Shalpin (ISPR).    
  

• TTP spokesman, Azam Tariq, downplayed the government’s successes in Waziristan by saying that the government forces are “capturing roads while our people are still operating in the forests and mountains." He goes on to say that the TTP “have started guerrilla war against the Pakistani army. We've carried out several actions against the army and inflicted heavy losses on them." With regards to the bombings carried out throughout Pakistan, Tariq said that “whoever harms our movement will be given a lesson” (Reuters).      

• Abdul Mannan, an Afghan Taliban commander also known as Mullah Toor, has criticized the TTP for targeting civilians in terrorist attacks in Pakistan (Geo).

• A car bomb exploded near Peshawar in a crowded market in Charsadda city, killing over twenty people. It is unknown at this point if the bomb was planted or if it was a suicide bomb. This is the third of such attacks in NWFP in the last three days (DAWN, AP, BBC). 

• The Pakistani government reports that nearly ten thousand cash cards have been given to IDP families and the Army hospital has treated over six thousand patients in Dera Ismail Khan, Wana, and Shakai (ISPR).   
  
  

 

MAP OF CONFLICT AREA IN SOUTH WAZIRISTAN - DAY TWENTY-FOUR - November 9, 2009

Day Twenty-Four of Operation- November 9, 2009

• Security forces continue their offensive for the twenty-fourth day into South Waziristan Agency (SWA) in pursuit of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Mehsud tribal areas (ISPR, Dawn).

• The Army released a statement that in the last twenty-four hours security forces have killed eight militants. Four soldiers were also killed and one injured during operations. Press-restrictions on the area have made it impossible to confirm the number of deaths (ISPR, Dawn).

• The government reports that security forces continue their three-pronged incursion into the Mehsud tribal areas of South Waziristan. All of the major cities and towns are now reported as under control by the government forces (ISPR, Dawn).

  • Jandola-Sara Rogha Axis: Forces continue to consolidate and enforce positions on the axis. Local sources say that military forces have set up positions on the heights surrounding Sara Rogha after a battle with TTP militants (ISPR, Dawn, The News).

  • Shakai-Ladha/Kaniguram Axis: Clearance operations were conducted in Bangal Khel, Totai Langar Khel, Maidan, Zay Killay, Habib Kot and Kaniguram. Forces destroyed a compound belonging to TTP commander Mumtaz Burki in Jamalki Garagah (ISPR, The News).

  • Razmak-Makeen Axis: Forces have cleared Tauda China. Checkpoints have been established in and around Makeen. The Army reports that four soldiers were killed and one injured from rocket fire at a checkpoint in Makeen, while local sources say the deaths were caused by and IED. Eight militants were killed in the city as well (ISPR, The News).   

• In the Swat-Malakand operation, Two militants were apprehended in Bat Kwela and one militant surrendered at Charbagh (ISPR).

• Official sources tell The News that militants have given up resistance in Kaniguram, Shakai, Tiarza, Salay Rogha, Asman Manza and Karwan Manza (The News).

• Local sources say that the Pakistani Air Force is targeting militant positions using jets and helicopter gunships. Most of the militants have reportedly fled to North Waziristan, Kurram, and Orakzai. Many of the villages near Makeen and Kaniguram have been completely abandoned by South Waziristan Residents (The News). 

• Two soldiers were killed in a suicide attack in Bajaur. Officials believe that the militants carry out these attacks in an attempt to distract forces from the SWA operation (Dawn).

• At least three people have been killed in a suicide bombing in Peshawar. The bomber was riding in a Rickshaw and detonated the explosives when he stopped at a police checkpoint. One policeman was killed in the attack along with two others (BBC, Geo).

• Over nine thousand cash cards have been given to IDP families and the Army hospital in Dera Ismail Khan has treated almost five thousand people. One camp is said to be established in the Ratta Kulachi area of Dera Ismail Khan (ISPR, The News). 

 

MAP OF CONFLICT AREA IN SOUTH WAZIRISTAN - DAY TWENTY-THREE - November 8, 2009

Day Twenty-Three of Operation- November 8, 2009

• Security forces continue their offensive for the twenty-third day into South Waziristan Agency (SWA) in pursuit of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Mehsud tribal areas (ISPR, The News).  

• The Army released a statement that in the last twenty-four hours security forces have killed twenty militants. Eight soldiers were injured in operations. According to government sources the total number of militants killed in the operation is believed to be almost five hundred. Press-restrictions on the area have made it impossible to confirm the number of deaths (ISPR, The News).    

• The government reports that security forces continue their three-pronged incursion into the Mehsud tribal areas of South Waziristan. All of the major cities and towns are now reported as under control by the government forces (ISPR). 

  • Jandola-Sara Rogha Axis: Positions have been consolidated by security forces at Sara Rogha, Raghzai Sagar and Langer Gel. Three militants were killed and a large amount of weapons seized during operations on this axis (ISPR).  

  • Shakai-Ladha/Kaniguram Axis: Security sources say that they currently “dominate and control the entire axis.” Clearance operations were undertaken in Totai, Langar Khel, Tapparghai, Gutsurai, Gawowai, Bangal Khel and Kund Mela. Twelve militants were killed and a large amount of weapons recovered during operations on this axis. An IED factory, along with electronic components, was discovered at Gadawai (ISPR, The News).  

  • Razmak-Makeen Axis: Clearance operations were conducted at Bhadur Khel, Manza Kai and Wuchoba. Five militants were killed and clashes were reported at Blankai Sar, Lagar Manza, Kund Mela and Makeen (ISPR). 

• In the Swat-Malakand operation, eighteen militants were detained in operations in Gulibagh, Shalpin, Walahai and Mingora. Three others surrendered at Roria and Kabbal. A cave containing weapons was destroyed in Nakhtar and Shah Dhari (ISPR).

• Local officials told The News that Gawawai, Shamerai, Maidan, Patwelai, and Siga were under the control of government forces (The News).  

• Fighter jets have reportedly engaged TTP positions in Tangi Bodnezai, Borakai, and Mashta. The amount of casualties is unknown (The News). 

• Twelve people were killed and dozens injured when a suicide bomber blew himself up in a cattle market in Peshawar. An anti-TTP official was killed in the blast and he is believed to have been the main target in the attack (DAWN, The News).

 

 

MAP OF CONFLICT AREA IN SOUTH WAZIRISTAN - DAY TWENTY-TWO - November 7, 2009

Day Twenty-Two of Operation- November 7, 2009

• Security forces continue their offensive for the twenty-second day into South Waziristan Agency (SWA) in pursuit of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Mehsud tribal areas (ISPR, DAWN, The News).

• The Army released a statement that in the last twenty-four hours security forces have killed twelve militants. Five soldiers were injured in operations. According to government sources the total number of militants killed in the operation is believed to be almost five hundred. Press-restrictions on the area have made it impossible to confirm the number of deaths (ISPR, DAWN, The News).

• The government reports that security forces continue their three-pronged incursion into the Mehsud tribal areas of South Waziristan. All of the major cities and towns are now reported as under control by the government forces (ISPR, DAWN).

  • Jandola-Sara Rogha Axis: Four militants were killed north of Sara Rogha. Security forces are consolidating positions in and around the city and are expanding their perimeter and securing heights around Sara Rogha (ISPR, DAWN, The News).

  • Shakai-Ladha/Kaniguram Axis: Positions are being consolidated as security forces clear Ladha. A large amount of weapons were recovered at Topparghai Siga and a tunnel holding weapons and ammunition was destroyed at Tiarza. Two soldiers were injured at Lundai Nur when militants fired rockets at security forces (ISPR, The News).

  • Razmak-Makeen Axis: eight militants were killed during clearance operations in Makeen. Security forces are in the process of clearing the eastern part of the city. Three soldiers were wounded by small arms fire and a large amount of weapons and ammunition were recovered in the city (ISPR, DAWN).

• In the Swat-Malakand operation, eight militants were detained in operations in Batkhela Daukadoa, Mingora and Udigram. One other militant surrendered to security forces (ISPR, DAWN).

• Since the beginning of the operation there have been no reported deaths of any TTP leadership. The locations of Hakimullah Mehsud, Qari Hussain and Waliur Rahman are unknown. Many local sources say the majority of militants have fled the area (The News).

• A total of 8,338 cash cards have been given to IDP families and the military field hospital in Dera Ismail Khan has treated over three thousand patients. The United Nations says that the conflict has displaced over two hundred and fifty thousand people (ISPR, DAWN).

 

MAP OF CONFLICT AREA IN SOUTH WAZIRISTAN - DAY TWENTY-ONE - November 6, 2009

Day Twenty-One of Operation- November 6, 2009

• Security forces continue their offensive for the twenty-first day into South Waziristan Agency (SWA) in pursuit of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Mehsud tribal areas. Security forces have moved into the Taliban stronghold of Makeen and are conducting “intense engagements.” Makeen is seen as the last militant stronghold (ISPR, DAWN, BBC, AP).

• The Army released a statement that in the last twenty-four hours security forces have killed twenty-four and arrested one militant. Press-restrictions on the area have made it impossible to confirm the number of deaths (ISPR, DAWN).

• The government reports that security forces continue their three-pronged incursion into the Mehsud tribal areas of South Waziristan. The majority of the major cities and towns are now reported as under control by the government forces (ISPR, DAWN).

  • Jandola-Sara Rogha Axis: Three militants were killed around Sara Rogha as forces consolidated positions around the city. Militants fired four rockets at security forces during the operation (ISPR).

  • Shakai-Ladha/Kaniguram Axis: Security forces are conducting clearance operations in Ladha. Large amounts of weapons and one suspected militant were seized by forces in Bangal Khel, Totai Langar Khel, and Kot Langar Khel. Militants reportedly attacked a position at Ghundai Gar, no casualties were reported (ISPR). 

  • Razmak-Makeen Axis: Forces entered and cleared “a large part” of the strategic town of Makeen. During operations the house of the late TTP leader, Beitullah Mehsud, was destroyed. The military reports that militants have fled the area, leaving behind their weapons. The military has blocked the intersections of Makeen-Ladha- Sara Rogha and Makeen-Ghariam-Sara Rogha. Twenty one militants were killed in this operation (ISPR, DAWN, BBC).

• In the Swat-Malakand operation, a woman wearing a burka was detained by police after they discovered her carrying a concealed submachine gun. Two militants and a cache of weapons were seized during search operations in Shakardara and Bashkhela. Three other militants surrendered to forces at Mingora (ISPR).

• The clearing of mines and IEDs continues to be a major problem for security forces. The area between Makeen and Razmak is said to be heavily mined (BBC).

• A Pakistani Army brigadier was attacked by two armed gunmen on motorcycles in Islamabad. The officer and his driver were injured in the attack. This is the third against high ranking military officials in Islamabad in the past two weeks (BBC, Reuters, DAWN).

• Four militants and three soldiers were killed during a clash at Warai in Hangu district. The battle occurred late Friday night when militants attacked a checkpoint (DAWN).

• Army medical camps were built at Wana and Shakai to treat IDPs. A total 7,922 cash cards have been given to IDP families (ISPR).  

 

MAP OF CONFLICT AREA IN SOUTH WAZIRISTAN - DAY TWENTY - November 5, 2009

Day Twenty of Operation- November 5, 2009

• Security forces continue their offensive for the twentieth day into South Waziristan Agency (SWA) in pursuit of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Mehsud tribal areas. Security forces have concentrated on the three main militant strongholds of Ladha, Sara Rogha and Makeen (ISPR, AFP, The News).

• The Army released a statement that in the last twenty-four hours security forces have killed twenty-eight militants and five soldiers were killed during operations. Security forces have also detained five other militants. The military estimates that around 500 militants were killed and 786 wounded since the beginning of the operation. Press-restrictions on the area have made it impossible to confirm the number of deaths (ISPR, AFP, DAWN, The News).

• The government reports that security forces continue their three-pronged incursion into the Mehsud tribal areas of South Waziristan. Progress has been reported on all three axes.

  • Jandola-Sara Rogha Axis: Five soldiers were killed and two were injured from an explosion while clearing Sara Rogha. Sixteen militants were killed and five were detained during operations. Security forces are consolidating forces around the heights in the area. Government sources also say that military units have captured Shin Sar and Hanrai Tangi (ISPR, AFP, The News).

  • Shakai-Ladha/Kaniguram Axis: Security forces have secured the strategic town of Ladha, as well as Shashak and Bangal Khel. In Ladha, security forces now control the Frontier Corps Ladha Fort, which was taken by militants over a year ago. Forces are consolidating around Asman Manza and up to Gadawi after clearing the area. Militants have launched rockets at forces in Mangora Sar and Ghundai Gar. Seven militants have been killed in operations on this axis. Government officials also say they have secured Garde Serai mountains and a clash was reported at Shamerai village (ISPR, The News).  

  • Razmak-Makeen Axis: House-to-house operations are being conducted in Spin Kamar, Wucha Kauna Algad, and Laghar Manza and clearance operations are being undertaken in Tauda China. Five militants were killed during an engagement at Litta Sar. A number of weapons, ammunition and explosives were recovered on this axis. Forces are moving towards Makeen and Panj Plorai and Ashkar Kot were seized on this axis (ISPR, DAWN).  

• In the Swat-Malakand operation, five relatives of the militant commander Ali Rehman were apprehended at Pir Patai village. Five other militants surrendered to government forces as Shin and four others surrendered at Salhand and Mingora (ISPR).

• TTP spokesman, Azam Tariq, told journalists that the TTP had left some areas but this was a tactical decision and not a retreat. In the conversation he said militants had begun to counter-attack forces in Makeen and Ladha (The News).

• Four militants were killed in a suspected US drone attack in North Waziristan. The attack targeted a compound in Norak village at 1:30 am. It is believed that Taliban militants were inside the compound (DAWN).

• FATA officials say that they have already been given Rs 2.5 billion for reconstruction but they will need over Rs 3.8 to undertake the massive reconstruction plan after the offensive (DAWN).

• The government has begun reconstructing the roads between Shakai and Kaniguram and Jandola and Sara Rogha. Additionally, the government has begun to repair the power system in the area (DAWN).

• Senior military officials told Dawn Newspaper that while they encountered stiff resistance in the beginning, the militants have largely stopped fighting. The official says that this operation has “broken the myth of Taliban’s invincibility and we have also broken the myth that South Waziristan is a no-go area” (DAWN).

• A total of nine Army trucks have delivered food to IDPs from Waziristan and a total of 7,461 cash cards have been given to IDP families (ISPR).

 

MAP OF CONFLICT AREA IN SOUTH WAZIRISTAN - DAY NINETEEN- November 4, 2009

Day Nineteen of Operation- November 4, 2009

• Security forces continue their offensive for the nineteenth day into South Waziristan Agency (SWA) in pursuit of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Mehsud tribal areas. Security forces have concentrated on the three main militant strongholds of Ladha, Sara Rogha and Makeen (ISPR, AP, Reuters).        

• The Army released a statement that in the last twenty-four hours security forces have killed thirty militants and eight soldiers have been injured. According to the Pakistani government, over three hundred and ninety militants and thirty-seven soldiers have been killed in the nineteen-day-old operation.  Press-restrictions have made it impossible to confirm the number of deaths (ISPR, AP, AFP, The News).        

• The government reports that security forces continue their three-pronged incursion into the Mehsud tribal areas of South Waziristan. Progress has been reported on all three axes (ISPR).          

  • Jandola-Sara Rogha Axis: Security forces report that they killed sixteen militants while they cleared a large portion of Sara Rogha. A number of soldiers were injured in this operation. West of Sara Rogha; Point 16242 and Prato Narai have been secured. Senior military officials have told reporters that the Pakistani military has “taken” Sara Rogha. Sources told The News that forces have advanced towards Janta, Piazha and Makeen but were slowed by the removal of mines on the Sara Rogha-Makeen road.  (ISPR, AFP, The News).                 

  • Shakai-Ladha/Kaniguram Axis: Fierce “street to street fighting” has been reported in the “nerve center” of Ladha. Ten militants have been killed during these clashes. Security forces are also expanding their control of the ridges around the town. A number of weapons, explosives and ammunition were recovered during a search operation at Mangora Sar. Local sources say that forces are moving towards Makeen from Kaniguram (ISPR, AP, Dawn, The News).                    

  • Razmak-Makeen Axis: The village of Tauda China has been completely secured and troops are consolidating forces. Four militants were killed in this operation and large amounts of weapons, explosives and ammunition were recovered from various compounds. Local sources say that forces are expected to launch an operation in Makeen in the coming days (ISPR, AFP, AP, The News).                                     

• In the Swat-Malakand operation, twenty-four suspects were detained in Swat and two other militants surrendered to security forces in the area. A suspected finance manager of the terrorist organization, Bakht-e-Man was detained in Jabrai (ISPR).    

• Political officials told The News that government forces have entered Sam, Gadawi, Asman Manza, and Karwan Manza as they advanced towards Ladha. The same sources said militants are abandoning the TTP while others are fleeing to Orakzai Agency (The News).                

• The Army reports that its field hospital has treated 890 IDPS from SWA and that 7,518 cash cards have been given to IDP families. The UN reports that a total of 155,000 people have fled South Waziristan (ISPR, AP).         

 

MAP OF CONFLICT AREA IN SOUTH WAZIRISTAN - DAY EIGHTEEN - November 3, 2009

Day Eighteen of Operation- November 3, 2009

• Security forces continue their offensive for the eighteenth day into South Waziristan Agency (SWA) in pursuit of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Mehsud tribal areas (ISPR, DAWN).   

• The Army released a statement that in the last twenty-four hours security forces have killed twenty-one militants and one Pakistani soldier has died in the fighting, but press-restrictions have made it impossible to confirm the number of deaths. Security forces also claim two militants were detained in operations. TTP spokesman, Azam Tariq, denies these claims and says that the militants have only lost eleven personnel in the entire operation (ISPR, DAWN, The News).     

• The government reports that security forces continue their three-pronged incursion into the Mehsud tribal areas of South Waziristan. Progress has been reported on all three axes (ISPR, DAWN).    

  • Jandola-Sara Rogha Axis: The Pakistani military forces have begun the “sanitization” of Sara Rogha and have advanced to Janta. During search operations the military claims it disabled a number of IEDs, killed sixteen militants and detained two on this axis. One soldier was killed and another injured from a mine (ISPR, DAWN, The News).           

  • Shakai-Ladha/Kaniguram Axis: Security forces have secured Kaniguram and are expanding control over nearby ridges. Forces have begun clearing the city for weapons and militants.  Militants have reportedly fired rockets at security forces but no deaths are reported. Five militants were killed in sanitization of Ghani Khel (ISPR).    

  • Razmak-Makeen Axis: Security forces have secured the village of Tauda China and secured areas up to Mian Nur Khel and south of Manza Sar. Forces are consolidating along these areas. Checkpoints near Razmak were attacked with small arms and rockets but no deaths were reported. One soldier was wounded while attempting to disarm an IED near Chashmai Bridge. Clashes have also been reported by official sources near Makeen and Sam (ISPR, The News).

•  TTP commander Hakimullah Mehsud broadcast a statement to his followers over radio in an attempt to stop them from fleeing the battlefield. In the message he said, “remember this is the commandment of God that once fighting starts with the enemy, you cannot leave the battlefield without permission from your commander, and don’t look for excuses to run away from the fighting. Such people will go to hell” (The News, AP).       

• In the Swat-Malakand operation, twenty-one militants were detained and ten others surrendered to security forces. A number of weapons, including rifles, grenades and explosives, have been found in this area and an operation at Piochar (ISPR).

• Azam Tariq, a TTP spokesman, told reporters during a telephone call that the TTP is not losing the offensive but instead preparing a trap for the army by “withdrawing from some areas to bring government soldiers further into Taliban territory.” He further said the TTP is “prepared for a long war” (DAWN, AP).    

• The Pakistani government says it has evidence of Indian support for militants in South Waziristan. The government says it has found Indian arms, literature and medical equipment in the South Waziristan theater (The News).  

• Local officials have told reporters that the Pakistani Air Force has destroyed four positions in Ladha, Makeen and Sam through air strikes and artillery. The sources also said that troops are moving towards Ladha, Asman Manza and Karwan Manza but that the troops have not reached Ladha, Janta, Shaktoi or Barwand (The News).            

• Almost seven hundred IDP families have moved to Zhob district in Balochistan and a total of 7,326 cash cards have been given to IDP families. The military has built medical camps at Mir Ali, Razmak, Miran Shah and Gurbez village. A total of 1,650 patients have been seen (ISPR).

 

MAP OF CONFLICT AREA IN SOUTH WAZIRISTAN - DAY seventeen - November 2, 2009

Day Seventeen of Operation- November 2, 2009

• Security forces continue their offensive for the seventeenth day into South Waziristan Agency (SWA) in pursuit of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Mehsud tribal areas (ISPR, The News).      

• The Army released a statement that in the last twenty-four hours security forces have killed twelve militants and six Pakistani soldiers were injured in fighting, but press-restrictions have made it impossible to confirm the number of deaths (ISPR, The News). 

• The government reports that security forces continue their three-pronged incursion into the Mehsud tribal areas of South Waziristan. Progress has been reported on all three axes (ISPR, The News). 

  • Jandola-Sara Rogha Axis: Security forces report that they have begun closing in on Sara Rogha but have faced resistance in the form of mortar and small arms fire. Four militants were injured in operations in this area (ISPR, The News).      

  • Shakai-Ladha/Kaniguram Axis: Kaniguram has been secured and cleared by security forces and house-to-house searches of compounds are currently being conducted. Large amounts of arms, ammunition and explosives have been seized in the city. Search operations have been conducted in Shin Sar and Guru Sar. Point 7121 and Mangora Sar have been secured. Eight militants were killed during this operation. Local officials told reporters that forces have moved towards the Tehsil building in Ladha. Karama village, east of Kaniguram, is also said to be in control of security forces (ISPR, BBC, The News).

  • Razmak-Makeen Axis: Positions are being consolidated on heights along the Razmak-Makeen road. The villages of Tauda China and Kam Narakai have been secured and large amounts of ammunition have been seized during operations along the axis, including twenty IEDs. There have been some reports by government officials that Malak Shahi is under the control of military forces as well (ISPR, The News).     

• In the Swat-Malakand operation, twenty-two suspected militants have been detained in Swat and two have surrendered to security forces. Weapons and tunnels have been discovered in Piochar, Muraday, Sahdarra and Derai (ISPR).

• General Abbas has stated that the military was defeating the TTP but that the TTP leadership was either still operating in the area or had left for North Waziristan. He also discarded the belief that the militants had time to prepare for the operation into South Waziristan saying that the militants were pounded with aerial strikes while the military prepared for the offensive (The News).     

• Two suicide bombers killed a policeman at a checkpoint in Lahore today. Twenty-five other people were injured in the blasts. Another suicide bomber killed thirty people in Rawalpindi on the busy Mall Road. These are the latest in a string of attacks that have occurred across Pakistan since the beginning of the operation (DAWN, DAWN, BBC).

• Rewards totaling five million US dollars have been offered for the capturing or killing of TTP high value targets by the Pakistani government. Up to six-hundred thousand dollars is offered for Hakimullah Mehsud (BBC).

• The Commander of International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan, General McChrystal, visited the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi and met with Chief of Army Staff, General Kayani to discuss “matters of mutual interest” (ISPR).  

• The Pakistani government has given a total of 7,272 cash cards to IDP families and relief supplies have been given to IDPs in Dera Ismail Khan. A total of 45,138 IDP families have been registered by the government (ISPR, The News). 

 

MAP OF CONFLICT AREA IN SOUTH WAZIRISTAN - DAY SIXTEEN - November 1, 2009

Day Sixteen of Operation- November 1, 2009

• Security forces continue their offensive for the sixteenth day into South Waziristan Agency (SWA) in pursuit of Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the Mehsud tribal areas (ISPR, The News).  

• The Army released a statement that in the last twenty-four hours security forces have killed nine militants and two Pakistani soldiers died in fighting, but press-restrictions have made it impossible to confirm number of deaths. Security forces also claim two militants were captured in operations. A total of three hundred militants and thirty-eight soldiers have been killed in the sixteen days of the operation (ISPR, The News).

• Foreign Minister Shar Mehmood Qureshi has said that the operation has been “very successful” thus far and expects that the objective of securing the area will complete before the winter (DAWN).

• The government reports that security forces continue their three-pronged incursion into the Mehsud tribal areas of South Waziristan. Progress has been reported on all three axes (ISPR, The News).

  • Jandola-Sara Rogha Axis: Security forces have sanitized Zeriwam and secured positions at Point 1435, Point 1342, Point 1389, and Point 1290. The ISPR says that that security forces have surrounded Sara Rogha on three sides and the “operation is progressing smoothly” (ISPR, The News).

  • Shakai-Ladha/Kaniguram Axis: Security forces say they are halfway done with clearing Kaniguram. Areas along Biga and Baddar Algad have been cleared. Four militants were killed when they attacked a checkpoint at Asman Manza. Khazar Manzor Ziarat has been secured. Weapons, explosives and medical equipment were discovered in Karama, including one vehicle containing explosives. Two soldiers and five militants were killed during clashes at Patok Narai. One other militant was detained in Karwan Narai (ISPR, The News).

  • Razmak-Makeen Axis: Security forces report that they have surrounded Makeen from three sides and have successfully cleared Litta Sar area (ISPR, The News).

• Large amounts of weapons, ammunition, explosives and tactical equipment were seized on all three axes (ISPR).   
  

• Aircraft and artillery shelling targeted militant positions in Ladha, Saam, Gadawai, Maidan and Makeen. Five militants were killed in these raids (The News).

• In the Swat-Malakand operation, two militants surrendered at Bishbanr and Shadhand Banda, seven others were detained at Durshkhela. A large amount of ammunition was found at Sore Banda (ISPR). 

• The AFP reports that between six to eight hundred foreign militants, mostly Uzbek, Chechens and Arabs, were in Kaniguram but many of them have fled the area. Military officials believe this may have been a strategic withdrawal (The News).

• The military built a field hospital at Ratta Kulachi in Dera Ismail Khan for IDPs (ISPR).  
  

 

For daily operational updates for the month of OCTOBER, please CLICK HERE

 

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Reference

• Map of Waziristan conflict throughout 2009

• Order of battle for Pakistani security forces in FATA and NWFP

Analysis of Security Situation in Waziristan

• Pakistani military options in Waziristan

• Hakimullah Mehsud assumes leadership of Pakistani Taliban

• Power struggle within Taliban following death of Beitullah Mehsud

Biographies of Waziristan Militants

• Hafiz Gul Bahadur (North Waziristan)

• Maulvi Nazir Ahmad (South Waziristan)

• Turkistani Bhittani (South Waziristan "pro-government" Taliban)

• Qari Zainuddin Mehsud (deceased "pro-government" Taliban)