In a violent confrontation that erupted late Monday night, at least 18 militants lost their lives during a fierce clash between two rival khawarij factions in Central Kurram. The deadly encounter took place in the Manato area, where tensions between the Kazim group and the Mumtaz Imti group escalated into intense gunfire.
Reports indicate that the majority of casualties were from the Mumtaz Imti faction, with 18 militants confirmed dead and three others unaccounted for following the exchange of fire. Meanwhile, the Kazim group suffered the loss of one militant, with another member reported missing. The scale of the violence has prompted local residents to begin preparing graves in the Manato vicinity for the deceased fighters.
This incident is part of a broader pattern of infighting among militant groups in the region, where disputes over extortion rackets and personal rivalries frequently lead to armed confrontations. Such clashes underscore the fragile and volatile nature of militant alliances in Central Kurram, where competing factions vie for control and influence.
Notably, these violent encounters have occurred repeatedly over recent years, reflecting deep-seated divisions within the militant landscape. The ongoing strife not only destabilizes the area but also complicates efforts to restore peace and security in this strategically sensitive region.
