Violence has erupted once again in Kurram District, with ongoing gunfire reported between rival factions in Shingak area, resulting in four deaths and two injured. Yesterday, motorcycle-riding assailants opened fire on people working in fields in the Shingak border area, resulting in two deaths and three injuries. Local residents chased the attackers, reportedly killing two of them. Parachinar DHQ medical superintendent Dr Syed Meer Hasan confirmed that two bodies and five injured individuals were brought to the hospital yesterday for medical treatment. He mentioned that clashes in Kurram occur monthly, often resulting in significant casualties. However, there has been a recent trend of casualties being brought to the hospital every few days due to gunfire. Deputy Commissioner Javedullah Mahsud labeled the incident as an act of terrorism and stated that an investigation is underway, indicating that certain groups are involved in the violence.

In the meantime, tribal elders have warned that the ongoing closure of main and link roads could result in a significant humanitarian crisis due to severe shortages of food, medicine, and fuel in Kurram District. In light of the escalating violence, members of a Grand Jirga, including tribal leaders from Hangu, Orakzai, and Kohat, have criticized the government for its inaction. They stated that despite repeated ceasefire agreements, no significant measures have been taken to enforce these accords. The leaders emphasized the need for government intervention where agreements are violated, asserting that without such actions, these accords hold no value. The tribal elders have expressed concern that the continuous closure of main and link roads is leading to a severe humanitarian crisis, with acute shortages of food, medicine, and fuel supplies in Kurram District. Elders from the Turi and Bangash tribes have voiced their concerns about the road closures, which have led to a lack of food and fuel supplies, heightening fears of a major humanitarian emergency.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan