Pakistan: Three others killed, five injured in ongoing violence in Kurram; A total of 18 people have lost their lives so far

Firing incidents continued for the fifth day on Saturday at various places in the Kurram tribal district. Three more people died and 12 others were injured in the incident. This information has been given in the report of Pakistan-based Dawn.

Ongoing clashes erupted at various locations including Bashkhel, Boshrah, Pewaraha, Tri Mengal, Kanj Alizai, and other areas. Heavy weapons were also used between the groups involved in the confrontation.

According to Dawn, the violent clashes started on Tuesday after a controversial video went viral on social media, in which 18 people lost their lives and 35 others were injured. The video was strongly condemned by both the groups and clashes broke out between the two groups in the district.

Local officials reported road closures, transportation halts, and halted cellular network services in the district. Educational institutions were also forced to close their doors. Kurram Deputy Commissioner Syed Saiful Islam told Dawn news agency, "Efforts for a ceasefire are on, Jirga members of Hangu and Orakzai districts are engaged in talks to resolve the issue."

Meanwhile, the Jirga members stressed that their priority was to ensure a ceasefire and clear bunkers from the area. Due to the closure of markets, residents have faced a shortage of everyday items. Local people are urging the government to take immediate action to restore normalcy.

On Thursday, local elders and officials gathered to negotiate a ceasefire between the warring factions. However, the process was disrupted when a convoy of two vehicles, escorted by police, was attacked in the Charkhel area of Lower Kurram, resulting in the death of four people and injuries to six.

Awami National Party (ANP) provincial president Aimal Wali Khan said the conflict appeared to be motivated by political interests and questioned the origin of the weapons in Kurram. He urged local elders and political leadership to intervene and take immediate steps to restore peace in the area, Dawn reported.