Afghan Taliban shelling targeted a civilian area in Bajaur on Wednesday, killing at least three people, including two children, and injuring three others, according to security sources.

Officials said the attack struck a house in the border village of Malik Shaheen in the Katkot area, where a woman and two children from the same family were killed. The injured were shifted to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Security sources described the incident as “unprovoked aggression,” saying that Afghan Taliban forces opened fire on the civilian population following a failed attempt to facilitate the infiltration of militants into Pakistan.

They said militants linked to Fitna al-Khawarij had been attempting to enter Pakistani territory in recent days, but the effort was foiled due to timely action by Pakistani security forces.

Following the failed infiltration, sources claimed, Afghan Taliban forces resorted to shelling civilian areas in Bajaur.

The Pakistan Army responded immediately, targeting and destroying the gun positions from where the fire originated, according to officials.

They added that multiple positions across the border were engaged during the retaliatory action, resulting in significant casualties on the opposing side.

Residents of Bajaur condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with security forces.

Security officials reiterated that forces remain vigilant and committed to protecting civilian lives, adding that targeting non-combatants reflects “desperation and malicious intent.”