The issue of the illegal spectrum and the crime-terror nexus behind terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has raised serious questions over the provincial government’s governance.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is currently in the grip of terrorism, with the primary reason being the failure to fully implement the National Action Plan. The lack of effective action against the illegal spectrum and crime-terror nexus in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has contributed to an increase in the wave of terrorism.
The DG ISPR has pointed out in his briefings that permanently eliminating terrorism requires action against the illegal spectrum, drugs, smuggling and terrorist financing, along with improved governance and an end to political support. Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has also held the provincial government responsible for the illegal spectrum in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The cultivation, harvesting and trafficking of drugs in Tirah Valley is the biggest example of the crime-terror nexus and illegal spectrum. According to sources, drugs are cultivated on approximately 12,000 acres of land in Tirah and Khyber, with a portion of the proceeds reaching terrorist elements.
During a two-week period in July 2026, Customs authorities seized smuggled goods and vehicles worth Rs1.163 billion. In the first quarter of 2026, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police recovered 5,695 kilograms of hashish, 847 kilograms of ice, 210 kilograms of heroin and 275 kilograms of opium.
The lack of effective action against the illegal spectrum and crime-terror nexus in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa raises questions over the provincial government’s administrative failure and incompetence.
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