January 17, 2025
By Rehan Piracha
PARACHINAR:
The volatile security situation in Kurram district worsened as a deadly attack on a food convoy in the Bagan area of Lower Kurram claimed six lives, including two security personnel and four drivers, while leaving five others injured. The incident, which occurred on January 16, has sparked outrage and fear among local communities already grappling with prolonged unrest.
According to the district administration, the convoy was ambushed while en route to Parachinar. In the ensuing clash, security forces killed six assailants and injured ten others. Tragically, four drivers were found dead in Udawali, their bodies showing signs of torture, with their hands bound before being executed. Police confirmed that the victims—Imran, Hassan Ali, and Shahid Ali, all residents of Kurram district—were transported to Alizai Hospital for further procedures.
Devastating losses for traders
The attack has also inflicted significant economic losses. Haji Imdad, a prominent trader leader, revealed that out of 35 trucks in the convoy, only two managed to return to Tal with their goods. More than ten trucks were looted and set ablaze, with goods worth millions of rupees destroyed. Five drivers remain missing, adding to the growing distress in the region.
Community Response and Jirga Condemnation
Members of the Grand Jirga, including Pir Haider, Haji Nurjaf, Laik Orakzai, and Wasi Syed Mian, condemned the attack and lamented the repeated violations of the January 1 peace agreement. Speaking to the media, they termed the closure of routes and the targeting of convoys as “regrettable” and demanded immediate government action against those responsible. “Despite the peace agreement, these incidents continue to occur, causing immense suffering,” they stated.
Political leaders decry government inaction
Former Federal Minister Sajid Turi and Parliamentary Leader of the MWM, Engineer Hameed Hussain, criticized the government and state institutions for their “mysterious silence at a press conference in Islamabad. Both leaders accused the authorities of acting as “silent spectators” while one party repeatedly violated the peace agreement. “The government must take decisive action against these terrorists,” they urged, warning of escalating unrest if the situation is not addressed promptly.
Ultimatum from tribal elders
Jalal Hussain Bangash, Secretary of the Hussainiya Association and a leader of the Turi Bangash tribes, issued a three-day ultimatum to the government. He demanded a comprehensive security plan to safeguard roads and hold the perpetrators of the January 16 attack accountable. “If the government fails to act within three days, we will formulate our own plan to ensure the safety of our people and properties,” Bangash declared.
Rising hardships for residents
The incident is the latest in a series of violent events that have plagued the region since November, leaving at least 130 people dead. Road closures and tribal clashes have severely disrupted daily life, with residents of Lower Kurram continuing their protest sit-in at Mandori to demand compensation for homes and businesses destroyed during tribal conflicts.
The spiraling violence has left Kurram’s people facing unprecedented hardships, amplifying calls for peace and stability in the troubled district.