Official claims brokering ceasefire in Kurram

PARACHINAR: The district administration in Kurram on Sunday claimed to have brokered a ceasefire after the deployment of security forces.

Deputy Commissioner Javedullah Mehsud told the media that the personnel of police and security forces had been deployed as the warring sides had vacated their positions.

He said a jirga would soon arrive from the Kohat division to implement the ceasefire. The official said the closed routes would soon be reopened for traffic.

Meanwhile, the clashes in Kurram entered their 11th day, claiming six more lives. The death toll has jumped to 130 with 186 injured so far, according to hospital sources.

The unrest prompted the security forces and police to intensify efforts to restore peace and impose ceasefire in the affected areas.

The deputy commissioner said that a ceasefire had been implemented in parts of Lower Kurram with police and security forces deployed to maintain order. “We are making every effort to extend the ceasefire to other areas,” he said.

Despite these measures, sporadic gunfire and skirmishes persisted in various locations. The situation has severely disrupted daily life, with the closure of key transportation routes, creating hardships for residents.

It may be recalled that the clashes erupted on November 21 following an attack on passenger vehicles traveling through Mandori and Ochit in Lower Kurram.

The communication networks, including phone and internet services, which were disrupted for five days, have now been restored, offering some relief to the residents.