SUMMARY

Momin Afridi is the commander of a local militia and has become a fierce opponent of the Pakistani Taleban and supporter of the government’s fight against TTP. Momin Afridi belongs to the Sheraki branch of the Afridis and he is based in the area around Akhorwal.

Momin Afridi first formed an armed militia called the Islami Taleban Momin Afridi Group in 2006 or 2007 (sources differ about the exact time the militia was founded). Tariq Afridi, a militant belonging to Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, served as the second commander of the armed outfit and the group gained a reputation and sympathies in Darra Adam Khel by driving out criminals. The group quickly gained control in Darra Adam Khel and the small Taleban outfit stopped barbers from shaving beards, restricted the education of girls and banned music.

Tensions between Momin and Tariq Afridi rose after Tariq Afridi’s attempts to merge with the newly established TTP movement against the will of Momin Afridi who favoured an alliance with the local tribes. This eventually led to a split between Momin and Tariq Afridi. Tariq Afridi and militants loyal to him joined the TTP network.

Since then, Momin Afridi’s main objective has been to flush out TTP militants in the area of Darra Adam Khel. Momin Afridi’s resistance against the growing influence of TTP in the region has resulted in a blood feud with the TTP chapter in the area, which is led by Tariq Afridi.

The forces of Momin Afridi have been involved in the non-state category of UCDP organised violence.