Last updated on August 29th, 2024 at 09:59 am
PESHAWAR – After a week of heavy fighting between rival tribes in various parts of Kurram District in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a ceasefire has been achieved, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Javedullah Mehsud announced Tuesday. Fighting that erupted on July 24 has so far killed 49 people and injured more than 200.
Clashes, Peace Efforts
The clashes broke out between the Boshehra and Maleekhel tribes and soon spread to Peewar, Tangi, Balishkhel, Khaar Kalay, Maqbal, Kunj Alizai, Para Chamkani and Karman. Heavy gunfire was still ongoing between the two rival tribes as a jirga of elders of the Hangu and Orakzai districts had meanwhile, began efforts for brokering an end to hostilities.
Security forces have been deployed, and no gunshots are reported at five sites in the Kurram District.
Casualties and Response by the Medical
Dr. Mir Hassan Jan, as many as 14 more people were killed on Monday, raising the death toll to 49. As many as 210 people received injuries and of them 12 with serious wounds were shifted to Peshawar for treatment.
Peace Efforts Remain Ongoing
There were also reported efforts to keep the peace intact after the ceasefire. One grand jirga, along with the GOC of nine infantry divisions from Kohat, the deputy inspector-general, and the commissioner of Kohat division are in Parachinar to assist in peaceful endavors.
DPO Nisar Ahmed Khan has confirmed that security forces continue to remain deployed at all the flash points for stability. He further added that, while business was gradually resuming, major roads and schools still remained closed and mobile data services suspended-they had allowed operational call services.
Impact on Community
The closure of the main Parachinar Road has disrupted every activity in our area, including the supply of food and other items of daily use, causing unprecedented financial losses to farmers and traders,” said Mir Afzal Khan, a social worker of the area.
Human Rights and Government Response
HRCP expressed deep concern over the “considerable loss of life” and sectarian tensions due to the land dispute. The chief minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has taken notice and asked for continued efforts to restore peace and order in the region.