At least 32 people have been killed and dozens more wounded in a surge of sectarian violence in Kurram Agency, northwest Pakistan. This escalation follows a deadly attack two days prior, where militants targeted convoys, resulting in 43 fatalities. The violence erupted on Thursday when armed assailants opened fire on two police-escorted convoys carrying families, leading to a significant security crisis in the region, which borders Afghanistan.
The situation deteriorated further on Friday evening when armed men attacked the Bagan market, a Sunni-majority area, using both light and heavy weapons. This assault resulted in extensive destruction, with hundreds of shops and homes reportedly burned down. Local residents described the aftermath as a complete loss, stating, 'There is nothing left to save in Bagan.'
In the ongoing clashes, 32 more individuals were killed on Saturday, including 14 Sunni Muslims and 18 Shiites. Local officials have acknowledged the severe damage to the Bagan market area and are attempting to restore calm by deploying security forces and engaging in tribal jirga meetings to address the crisis.
The Pakistani authorities have pledged to send additional security personnel to the region, although they face logistical challenges. A local official highlighted the critical shortage of police and administrative staff necessary to manage the escalating violence. The provincial government has been urged to act swiftly to address the situation.
The sectarian violence in Kurram is rooted in long-standing land disputes, with tribal codes often overriding the authority of security forces. This ongoing conflict has led to widespread protests among Shia communities, particularly in Parachinar, where thousands are demanding enhanced security and an end to sectarian strife. The Pakistan Human Rights Commission has reported that over 70 individuals have died in sectarian violence in Kurram since July, criticizing both federal and regional governments for their failure to protect citizens and control the proliferation of weapons.
