Militants Use Women, Children as Human Shields in Waziristan

South Waziristan: Security forces have launched a targeted operation in South Waziristan following intelligence reports about the presence of Khawarij militants, according to security sources.

As the operation intensified and the militants felt encircled, they reportedly adopted a disturbing tactic by gathering women and children around themselves to avoid direct engagement. Sources claim that the militants are using these civilians as human shields to hinder the progress of security forces.

According to officials, the militants are fully aware that Pakistan’s security forces exercise maximum restraint in operations involving civilians, particularly children. This calculated move aims to delay or prevent any direct action against the militants.

“Seeing children and women, the security forces are reluctant to open fire, and the Khawarij exploit this to their advantage,” said a senior security official familiar with the operation.

The term “Khawarij” is often used by Pakistani authorities to refer to extremist elements who reject the state and carry out militant activities, particularly those associated with terrorism in tribal and border areas.

Operations in the region are ongoing, and the military is taking all necessary precautions to ensure civilian safety while working to neutralize the threat.