ISLAMABAD: Security forces continue operations, arrests and torture of Taliban members despite the announcement of a ceasefire, Shahidullah Shahid, the spokespersons of the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan, claimed in a statement issued to the press, DawnNews reported.

The statement added that raids, arrests and torture of prisoners was a violation of the ceasefire.

Giving details of the claims, the statement said that search operations and mortar shelling continued in Mohmand tribal region whereas several members of the banned outfit were arrested in Karachi, Swabi, Charsadda and Peshawar.

The spokesperson further said that the TTP had no link with the Ahrarul Hind and Jundullah militant organisations.

He added that there were several elements withing the government ranks which were affecting dialogue process.

The TTP, an umbrella group of several militant factions, has waged a bloody seven-year war against the Pakistani state, leaving thousands dead in the violence.

Prime Minister had announced the initiative of holding peace talks with the Taliban earlier in January this year.

Peace talks between the government and Taliban struck an impasse last month after the Taliban-linked militants murdered 23 kidnapped Pakistani soldiers.

The killings resulted in multiple targeted airstrikes by the military against suspected hideouts in the tribal northwest.

The Taliban then announced a one-month ceasefire which was reciprocated by the government which halted its airstrikes targeting militants and their hideouts.

The talks process has entered its decisive stage now with the government announcing the formation of a new committee to mediate with the Taliban's negotiating committee.