Aaj English TV

Tuesday, February 18, 2025  
19 Shaban 1446  

Govt to launch operation against militants in Lower Kurram

Decision comes after attack on aid convoy near Bagan

Following a deadly ambush on an aid convoy in Lower Kurram’s Bagan area, authorities have announced plans for a military operation against militants and the establishment of temporary displacement camps (TDPs) for affected civilians.

A notification issued by the Deputy Commissioner designates locations for these camps in Thall and Hangu, including the Thal Degree College, Technical College, and Rescue and Court buildings. The district administration has reportedly contacted provincial relief authorities to facilitate the camp setup.

The ambush, which occurred on a convoy traveling to Parachinar, resulted in the deaths of six drivers and two security personnel. Five security personnel were also injured. In a retaliatory operation, authorities claim six attackers were killed, ten injured, and ten remain missing.

Separately, four bodies were discovered in the Urawali area of Lower Kurram, showing signs of torture and execution-style killings. Police have confirmed that the victims were drivers and their bodies have been transferred to the Lower Kurram Alizai Hospital.

Read more: Parachinar faces dire humanitarian crisis

The recent violence has cast a shadow on recent peace efforts. A member of the Grand Jirga, a tribal council, expressed concern that the Bagan attack undermines the recently signed peace agreement. The Jirga members cited road closures and attacks as particularly distressing. The district administration maintains that efforts to maintain peace are ongoing.

It’s important to note that a Grand Jirga was recently convened to address the situation in Lower Kurram. The participating parties signed a peace agreement outlining the settlement of damages, the surrender of heavy weaponry to government authorities, the dismantling of established checkpoints, and a commitment to avoid giving the tribal conflict a religious dimension. The latest events represent a significant setback to these peace efforts.

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Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Kurram

parachinar