In a deadly escalation of tribal violence, at least 36 people have been killed and 162 others injured in armed clashes between two tribes over a land dispute in Pakistan’s volatile Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Officials reported on Sunday that the conflict, which began five days ago, has severely impacted the Upper Kurram district, an area historically plagued by tribal conflicts, religious strife, and militant attacks.
The violence erupted in Boshera village and rapidly spread to other regions, including Peewar, Tangi, Balishkhel, Khaar Kalay, Maqbal, Kunj Alizai, Para Chamkani, and Karman. Local residents described the intense clashes, noting the use of heavy and sophisticated weaponry such as mortar shells and rocket launchers. They reported that mortar and rocket fire even reached Parachinar and Sadda, the main cities in the Kurram tribal district.
“There were at least four waves of attacks in last night’s gunbattle, resulting in more casualties,” an official said.
Deputy Commissioner Kurram, Javedullah Mehsud, confirmed the toll, highlighting the severity of the ongoing conflict. Efforts to quell the violence have involved tribal elders, military leaders, police, and district administration. A truce has been brokered between Shia and Sunni tribes in Boshera, Malikhel, and Dandar areas, but sporadic firing continues in other parts of the district.
Officials are striving to achieve a comprehensive ceasefire across the remaining conflict zones. Tribal fighters have vacated their trenches, which are now under the control of law enforcement agencies. However, the situation remains tense.
The clashes have paralyzed daily life in the affected areas. All educational institutions and markets have been closed, and traffic on main roads has been suspended. Heavy contingents of police and security forces have been deployed to restore order and prevent further escalation.
