.png "Bangladeshis Join TTP")
A new report suggests a significant shift in regional security dynamics. Thousands of Bangladeshi nationals are reportedly joining the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). This comes amidst increased activity by Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and Army leadership in Bangladesh, sparking questions about their true intentions and the growing instability in the region.
Reports indicate that over 5,000 Bangladeshis have already joined the TTP, with many receiving training and participating in attacks against Pakistan. This development adds a complex layer to Pakistan's ongoing struggles with the TTP and raises concerns about broader security implications across South Asia.
How TTP Recruits in Bangladesh
TTP recruiters have actively tapped into networks within Bangladesh, particularly during periods of unrest. They target madrasas and other groups. This recruitment drive spans various regions including Chittagong, Cox's Bazar, Teknaf, Sylhet, and even parts of Tripura. Recruiters influence and radicalize individuals. They then move these new members into TTP ranks.
The process often involves a covert route from Chittagong to Karachi. Intelligence reports suggest the use of encrypted channels and hawala money transfer systems. These reports indicate that pro-TTP sources in Pakistan provide significant funding. This money supports the recruitment efforts and helps move manpower.
A New Face for TTP
The inclusion of non-Pashtuns, like Bangladeshis, marks a major change for the TTP. Historically, the TTP presented itself with a strong tribal, Pashtun image. Now, it appears the group needs more fighters. It actively seeks recruits from diverse backgrounds to carry out attacks against Pakistani targets. This move breaks from their traditional identity. It shows a desperate need for manpower to continue their operations.
Pakistan's High-Level Visits to Bangladesh
Recently, Pakistan's ISI Chief and Chief of General Staff visited Bangladesh. These visits reportedly involved tense discussions with Bangladeshi officials. Sources suggest these meetings were not smooth. The Pakistani delegation faced tough questions.
During these visits, Pakistani officials went to regions like Cox's Bazar, Bandarban, Rangamati, and Chittagong. They aimed to understand the situation on the ground. However, their true agenda seemed to extend beyond just observing.
Rebuilding Old Networks
One key goal of Pakistan's visit was to reactivate old networks. These networks, linked to groups like ULFA and NSCN, have historically worked against India. Pakistan hoped to stir up trouble in India's eastern regions. But during these attempts, Pakistani officials discovered a more pressing issue. Their own country faced problems from TTP recruits in Bangladesh.
Bangladesh made its position clear. It denied responsibility for the TTP activities. Bangladeshi officials stated that these issues were Pakistan's problem. They stressed that Bangladesh was not accountable for what Pakistan's own people were doing. This led to heated arguments. Pakistan accused Bangladesh of not stopping these recruits.
Training Camps and Specialized Cells
An estimated 500 to 1,000 Bangladeshi recruits have already completed their training. This training started by late 2023. These new fighters are trained in Afghanistan, specifically in the Khurram and Nuristan sectors. They also train in Pakistan, near Bannu. These trained individuals are now part of a group called 'Ittehad Lashkar'.
Some recruits receive advanced training. Over 50 individuals are now "super-trained." They are like special forces. These highly skilled fighters are active in Pakistan's Karachi and Quetta regions.
Bengali Propaganda Unit
The TTP also set up a new cell in Miranshah. This cell focuses on Bengali-speaking recruits. The need for this cell arose because of difficulties in translating propaganda. It was hard to get the message across to new recruits. So, the Miranshah cell created specific Bengali propaganda. This aims to boost recruitment from Bangladesh. Some of the new recruits themselves, around 30 to 50 people, are now used to spread this propaganda in their home areas.
Bangladesh Denies Responsibility
Bangladeshi intelligence agencies initially provided some help to Pakistan. They shared information about the activities. But they also made it clear that Pakistan caused these problems. Bangladesh stated that it was not responsible for cleaning up Pakistan's mess. They have washed their hands of the issue.
This network of TTP recruitment in Bangladesh is not small. It is vast and creates many problems for Pakistan. Pakistan tried to redirect the blame towards India. However, these attempts failed. Instead, their own actions have created problems within their borders.
The Myanmar Connection and US Interests
Pakistan also has close ties with Rohingya communities. It uses these ties to arm and train Rohingyas. They then send them to Myanmar to fight against the Arakan Army. The Arakan Army has lost some territory in this conflict. Myanmar's military government works with various groups to manage this situation.
The United States also has interests in Myanmar, particularly for rare earth minerals. When the Trump administration was in power, statements about lifting sanctions on Myanmar emerged. Myanmar's army reportedly agreed to allow the US access to these resources. This was in exchange for help in regaining control within the country.
Erik Prince of Blackwater plays a role in this. He is still active in the region. He provides protection for Chinese supply routes. But he also helps in operations where the US gains open access to Myanmar's resources.
Scott Bennett, an expert, stated that Myanmar is vital for rare earth minerals. He predicted that China's control over these resources would end within two years. He believes the US will take full control.
Pakistan's Attempt to Infiltrate India
Pakistan tries to use these regional complexities to its advantage. It seeks to undermine India's security. The Pakistani Chief of General Staff met only with the Bangladeshi Army Chief. He did not meet with the Air Force or Navy Chiefs. This shows that the army controls ground operations. Pakistani officials wanted to work with the army to avoid more problems.
Pakistani ISI officers are also set for permanent posting at the High Commission in Dhaka. This team includes:
- One Brigadier
- Two Colonels
- Four Majors
- Some other officers from the Air Force and Navy
- Support staff
This combined Pakistani military and ISI presence in Bangladesh aims to support the US operation in Myanmar. But it also tries to find solutions for the growing TTP problem in Bangladesh. Areas like Cox's Bazar, Teknaf, Ukhia, and Moulvibazar show significant movements.
Pakistan's plan was not simple. It hoped to use these recruits to attack India. But this plan is backfiring. Pakistan is facing blowback within its own country.
Violence Against Chakma People
In the Bandarban and Rangamati regions, many violent acts occur. Chakma people face attacks and forced displacement. A Bangladeshi investigative journalist reported that the TTP is recruiting Bangladeshi nationals. This report circulated in Bangladesh. However, powerful forces in the media suppressed it. Pakistan applied pressure to keep this information hidden, fearing severe consequences.
Funding the Operations: Drugs and Elections
Money is key to these operations. The ISI has significant funds. However, the region's drug trade provides another funding source. If the ISI and some elements within the Bangladeshi army (who lean towards jihadi ideology) control this drug network, they can create a funding cycle. Much work is underway to achieve this.
A US special forces individual was also in the region. He had two main goals:
- Election Manipulation: To influence elections in Bangladesh and Myanmar. Muhammad Yunus is reportedly trying to sideline the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the opposition to the Awami League. The US and Pakistan are both involved in this effort.
- Corridor Creation: To establish a corridor for influence.
This individual coordinated with local political parties to win elections. During these activities, an ISI operative was reportedly "hit." This event sparked rumors that there were attempts against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
If attempts were indeed made against PM Modi, the infiltration route was likely through Sylhet. Pakistani-trained operatives would then enter Bengal and Bihar. This is similar to past attempts in 2013. However, strong counter-intelligence operations are disrupting these plans.
Conclusion
Pakistan finds itself in a difficult position. It tried to create problems elsewhere, but the issues are now affecting its own stability. The fire it sought to ignite in other countries is now burning in its own home. This situation shows the dangers of interfering in regional affairs. It often leads to unforeseen consequences for those who start such actions. We will continue to monitor these developments closely as the regional dynamics evolve.
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