WATCH
Authorities have decided to launch a large-scale operation against terrorists in Lower Kurram, targeting four village councils identified as hotbeds of militant activity. The operation follows a series of attacks in the region, including the recent fatal ambush on a convoy heading to Parachinar, which left six drivers and two security personnel dead.
In response to the escalating violence, the Deputy Commissioner of Kurram has issued a notification to set up Temporary Displaced Persons (TDP) camps in Tall and Hangu. These camps are being established to provide shelter and safety for the local population affected by the military operation. The camps will be set up at Tall Degree College, Technical College, and Rescue and Court buildings, with the support of Provincial Relief authorities.
The Operation Plan
The district administration has confirmed that the operation will target four key areas: Bagan, Mandori Uchet, Charkhel, and Chapri, where terrorist activity has been rampant in recent months. An intelligence-based operation will be launched to neutralize militants in these locations.
The Deputy Commissioner of Kurram emphasized that the security forces will conduct this operation with the aim of protecting civilians and dismantling terrorist networks in these areas. A dedicated committee, led by the Additional Deputy Commissioner, has been set up to oversee the arrangements for the operation and the establishment of TDP camps.
Violence and Peace Efforts
While military action is being taken, local peace efforts are facing significant challenges. The Grand Jirga member Laik Orakzai stated that peace talks had been underway, including the demolition of bunkers, to ensure lasting peace in the region. However, the recent attack on a convoy in the Bagan area has raised concerns about the peace process.
In this attack, six drivers and two security personnel were killed, and five security personnel were injured. The retaliatory action from security forces killed six attackers and wounded ten others. The convoy, which was traveling to Parachinar, also saw 33 out of 35 freight vehicles looted. Haji Imdad, the President of the Trade Union in Parachinar, confirmed the loss of goods and vehicles during the attack.
The district administration has also reported the discovery of four bodies in the Arawali area of Lower Kurram, all of which had been shot and tortured. These recent incidents underscore the growing instability in the region, despite efforts to maintain peace through agreements.
Jirga and Peace Talks at Risk
The continuing violations of the peace agreement, particularly the Bagan attack, have prompted local leaders to call for accountability. The Grand Jirga, which recently brokered the peace agreement, has emphasized that any further breaches will have serious consequences. According to the Jirga members, the failure to uphold the agreement threatens not only the peace process but the security of the region as a whole.
The peace agreement, which involves the dismantling of militant fronts and the handover of major weapons to the government, was seen as a critical step toward reducing violence in Kurram. However, repeated road closures and attacks are testing the viability of this initiative.
Conclusion
As the operation against terrorists unfolds in Lower Kurram, the district administration is working to ensure the safety of displaced civilians and the continuation of peace efforts. While the security forces are focused on neutralizing militants, the local population’s welfare and the future of the peace agreement remain uncertain. The situation in Kurram is fluid, and continued efforts will be required to restore stability and trust among the community and authorities.