ISLAMABAD: All terrorists involved in the Wana Cadet College attack were Afghan nationals, security sources confirmed on Thursday, revealing new details about the planning and execution of the assault.
According to intelligence findings, the attack was planned inside Afghanistan, and the assailants remained in constant communication with handlers across the border throughout the operation.
Sources said the final order to carry out the assault was issued by foreigner Noor Wali Mehsud, while an Afghan identified as Zahid masterminded the planning. The attackers were reportedly provided with equipment and logistical support from Afghan soil.
The attack, officials believe, was aimed at raising security concerns in Pakistan and destabilising the region. Following the assault, the responsibility was claimed in the name of Jaish-ul-Hind on the orders of Noor Wali Mehsud, in an attempt to deflect attention from the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
Security officials added that the so-called faction Fatna al-Khawarij sought to distance the TTP from the operation amid pressure from the Afghan Taliban not to use its name. In a video recorded during the attack, one of the militants repeatedly mentioned Jaish-ul-Hind, while in an intercepted audio clip, another attacker was heard speaking in Urdu and referring to the same group.
Authorities said the identities of the slain Afghan terrorists have eliminated all doubts about their origin and affiliations. Investigations are ongoing to trace their facilitators and cross-border networks involved in supplying arms and equipment for the assault.
