News

Over 30 dead following shooting attack in north-western Pakistan

At least 38 people, including women and children, have been killed after gunmen attacked passenger vehicles in Pakistan’s Kurram district, officials have confirmed.

Senior administration official Javed ullah Mehsud said that around 10 armed assailants fired indiscriminately at the vehicles as they passed through the tribal area in north-western Pakistan. 

Pakistan’s Kurram district has seen sectarian clashes in recent months, with fighting between majority Sunni Muslims and minority Shiites leaving dozens dead.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks. 

Survivors were transported for treatment at a hospital in Parachinar in Pakistans north-west. 

Ajmer Hussain, who was among those attacked, says the shooting lasted for five minutes.

“Gunfire suddenly erupted and I started reciting my prayers, thinking these were my final moments,” Mr Hussain told AFP.

“I laid down at the feet of the two passengers sitting next to me. Both of them were struck by multiple bullets and died instantly,” Mr Hussain said.

Pakistan’s prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif, has condemned the attacks.

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Kurt Hughes

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