PARACHINAR/PESHAWAR: The death toll in Kurram tribal district continues to rise as fresh clashes on Saturday claimed the lives of 32 people and left over 50 injured. This violence erupted following Thursday’s terrorist attack on passenger vehicles, which killed 44 people, including women and children.
The unrest began when residents of Upper Kurram stormed Bagan village in Lower Kurram in retaliation for the attack, where gunmen targeted vehicles traveling between Peshawar and Parachinar. Reports indicate that around 5,000 armed individuals attacked the village, torching gas stations, markets, and homes, forcing hundreds of families to flee to safer areas.
Delegation Sent to Restore Peace
A high-level delegation comprising government officials, including Chief Secretary Nadeem Aslam Chaudhry, IGP Akhtar Hayat Gandapur, and Adviser Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, arrived in Parachinar to negotiate with local tribal elders. The team met with Shia elders to offer condolences, discuss security measures, and request a week-long ceasefire to engage Sunni leaders in Sadda.
Barrister Saif denied reports of the delegation’s helicopter coming under fire, confirming the team’s safety and ongoing peace efforts. He emphasized the provincial government’s commitment to addressing legitimate demands from all sides and resolving the conflict through dialogue.
Ceasefire Efforts and Government Response
Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, chairing a virtual security meeting, reiterated the importance of a ceasefire and called on all parties to cease hostilities to facilitate negotiations. He condemned the recent violence as tragic and assured victims’ families of compensation.
The government has prioritized consultations with both Shia and Sunni leaders to develop a comprehensive strategy for lasting peace in the region. Gandapur also emphasized the effectiveness of traditional jirgas in resolving disputes and urged cooperation from local elders.
Ongoing Clashes and Displacement
Despite government efforts, violence has continued for three consecutive days, spreading across Kurram. Armed groups have reportedly used heavy weapons, and communication disruptions have hindered relief efforts. Officials estimate over 300 homes and shops were burned in Bagan village alone, with more than 300 families fleeing to Hangu and Peshawar for safety.
The death toll is expected to rise as clashes persist and access to affected areas remains limited. Educational institutions and markets in the district remain closed, while residents continue to demand increased security along the Parachinar-Peshawar Road.
Nationwide Protests
The violence has sparked protests in several cities, including Lahore, Karachi, and Parachinar, where thousands have participated in demonstrations and sit-ins, demanding justice and peace. Funerals for Thursday’s victims also drew large crowds, highlighting the community’s grief and anger over the ongoing unrest.
The government has pledged to address the crisis and restore peace, but the situation in Kurram remains tense as violence shows no signs of abating.
