The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) is using weapons left behind by US troops in Afghanistan to carry out terrorist attacks inside Pakistan, a US publication said.

According to a report by the US-based journal The Geopolitics, following the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, American weapons left behind in the country have emerged as a serious security threat to the region.

The report states that militants of Fitna Al Khawarij are targeting security forces and civilians in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and other areas with modern US weapons.

The value of US weapons still in Afghanistan is estimated at over $7 billion, the report said, adding that arms include M4 and M16 rifles, night vision devices, and other military equipment.

After the Taliban took control, these weapons have been sold on Afghanistan’s black market and are now accessible to terrorist networks.

According to the report, the availability of these weapons has enabled the TTP to conduct more lethal and coordinated attacks to destabilise Pakistan’s security situation.

Security sources said that the latest technology used in these weapons, such as night vision scopes and modern rifles, allows militants to carry out effective operations even at night.

The report also pointed out that the Afghan Taliban leadership has facilitated local commanders in retaining these weapons, while Afghanistan’s black market has made advanced arms easily available to civilians, further undermining social security and government control.

US-made weapons have been recovered in Pakistan on several occasions over the past year, with evidence suggesting they were used in terrorist attacks.

Security experts say this situation has strengthened the operational capability of the TTP and other militant groups.

Experts said that to overcome the threat, the international community — particularly the United States — must take immediate measures to stop the flow of weapons in Afghanistan.

The report added that enhanced intelligence sharing between Pakistan, Afghanistan, and other regional countries is essential to limit terrorist capabilities and improve overall security situation.