SUMMARY

The umbrella organization 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 Pakistan’s remote tribal areas and not least different interpretations of the underlying religious extremism. The conflict between the TTP - Mullah Rafique faction and the TTP - Mullah Toofan faction is a result of different TTP groups competing for influence within TTP and Kurram Agency. While the majority of militants under the command of Mullah Toofan are from Orakzai and Waziristan, Mullah Rafique is a local commander of a group of fighters who mainly belong to the Bangesh tribe with strong local ties and origins in Kurram Agency. Many of the local tribes, Shia as well as Sunni, are rather critical of the growing presence of Taleban from Waziristan and Orakzai. The conflict between both factions has resulted in a number of clashes and ambushes, also including the use of heavy weapons.

The non-state conflict between the TTP - Mullah Rafique faction and the TTP - Mullah Toofan faction is first included in UCDP data in 2010. The conflict became active in March when several attacks resulted in over 25 battle-related deaths.