SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: The Lower South Waziristan police launched a major crackdown on Friday in connection with the longstanding Ghundak land dispute, arresting 33 individuals from the Jikhel, Sarkikhel, and Darkhel tribes. All detainees were shifted to the Wana city police station, officials said.

According to SHO Usman, the land dispute among these tribes has been ongoing for several years and has intensified in recent months. In a clash prior to Eidul Azha, two people were killed and more than a dozen injured.

Police sources said that during the recent flare-up, some individuals allegedly attempted to take the law into their own hands, prompting law enforcement to take decisive action. Checkpoints were established in various parts of Birmal tehsil, resulting in the arrest of dozens of people.

“This operation is aimed at upholding the rule of law and ensuring public safety,” SHO Usman said. “No one will be allowed to disrupt peace, and those involved in unlawful activities will face action without discrimination.”

He added that both the district administration and police were actively working to find a peaceful and lasting solution to the land dispute in order to prevent future violence.

Published in Dawn, June 22nd, 2025