PARACHINAR/PESHAWAR: The death toll from the attack on a convoy of trucks and security forces in Lower Kurram tribal district rose to nine on Tuesday, further intensifying concerns over security in the region.
Casualties and Damage
According to official sources, the fatalities include:
- Five security personnel
- A truck driver
- A passerby
- Two attackers
Additionally, over 20 individuals, including five security personnel and five truck drivers, sustained injuries.
The convoy, transporting goods to Parachinar, was ambushed in multiple areas, including Mandori, Ochat, Charkhel, and Bagan. The attackers not only looted 35 trucks but also set multiple vehicles on fire.
Government Response & Clearance Operation
In response to the attack, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has decided to launch a clearance operation in four troubled areas:
- Ochat
- Mandori
- Dad Kamar
- Bagan
Key decisions from a high-level meeting:
- Evacuation of residents from these villages to prevent further casualties.
- Strict legal action against those responsible for the attack.
- Names of individuals involved in anti-state activities to be added to Schedule IV.
- Bounties to be placed on masterminds behind the violence.
- Suspension of relief compensation funds in Kurram after Monday’s incident.
- Demolition of illegal bunkers in the region to be accelerated.
- Expansion of measures to eliminate illegal arms, making Kurram a weapon-free zone.
Political & Business Community’s Reaction
Local leaders and business representatives condemned the attack, urging immediate government action:
- MNA Hamid Hussain criticized the government’s silence over repeated violations of the peace agreement and demanded swift action.
- MPA Ali Hadi Irfani highlighted the financial losses suffered by traders and shopkeepers due to the destruction and looting of goods.
- Drugs Association leaders, Syed Iftikhar Hussain and Syed Muhammad Hanif, revealed that traders had collectively loaded goods worth Rs120 million into a large trailer, which was entirely looted by militants.
The peace committees established under the peace agreement have been directed to fulfill their responsibilities effectively and help maintain stability in the area.
