Federal Information Minister Atta Tarar has said that Afghan Taliban forces launched artillery and mortar shelling from across the border targeting civilian areas in Bajaur district, resulting in the deaths of four civilians and serious injuries to a child.
According to Atta Tarar, the attack occurred around 3:30 PM when mortar shells were fired at the Salarzai area of Bajaur, specifically Tabasta Letei, deliberately targeting civilian residences.
One house was struck by a mortar shell, killing four civilians while a five-year-old child sustained severe injuries.
The minister identified the deceased as Sajid, Ayaz, Riyaz, and Muaz, who were brothers.
Atta Tarar stated that local residents strongly condemned the incident and expressed anger over what they described as a terrorist act by the Afghan Taliban.
He further said that Afghan Taliban forces are deliberately targeting innocent civilians and are carrying out operations in collaboration with terrorist groups. Such attacks, he said, are a serious violation of international law and basic human values.
The information minister added that due to the effective actions under Operation Ghazab-ul-Haq, Afghan Taliban fighters and affiliated militants are under pressure and frustration, leading to such cowardly attacks.
He said that responsible Afghan Taliban posts and infrastructure are being given a strong and appropriate response.
