SUMMARY

The umbrella organisation of the Taleban Movement of Pakistan (TTP) consists of numerous militant groups, which often have strong local ties in various parts of the tribal areas in the border region. Although the militant outfits are united by common overall goals and share the same radical ideology, frictions between groups and local militant leaders are not uncommon. TTP factions are competing for influence within TTP, territorial control in Pakistans remote tribal areas and not least different interpretations of the underlying religious extremism.

Tariq Afridi is considered to be one of the more powerful commanders within the network of TTP. Tariq Afridi is based in Darra Adam Khel and was appointed TTP’s commander in Khyber Agency in November 2009. In addition, he is also the leader of the Taleban outfits in the regions of Peshawar, Kohat and Hangu. TTP militants under his command have also operated outside the tribal areas using the name “Asian Tigers”. Moreover, Tariq Afridi has repeatedly been involved in attacks against competing TTP commanders.

Tariq Afridi previously belonged to the militant outfit Lashkar-e-Janghvi and together with Momin Afridi, he headed the group Islami Taleban Momin Afridi. When this group split, Tariq Afridi joined the ranks of TTP. Tariq Afridi has since then gained more and more influence within the Taleban movement of Pakistan and in addition to attacks against rival TTP or militant outfits, his faction is responsible for some major attacks against civilians and security forces.

The TTP faction of Tariq Afridi has been involved in intrastate and non-state category of UCDP organised violence.