The British commenced their campaign against Malakand in 1852, and Dargai became well known for its battles during their rule. First, the British conducted a campaign against the Pashtun Utmankhel tribe and a large battle took place at Prang Ghar. Owing to its defenders being only a small band of poorly armed mujahideen, the Utmankhel were subdued. In March 1852, a brigade was sent after them under the command of Lord Clyde, which raided Dargai and Kharkeay - small villages of the Ranizai tribe at the bottom of the Malakand Pass. The attackers were well equipped with artillery, so the Ranizais accepted a ransom of Rs.5000 and thereafter proclaimed jihad or holy war in the Buner Valley, at that time ruled by Syed Akhbar Shah Badshah. The British felt threatened by Badshah and made an unsuccessful attempt to take the valley.