PARACHINAR, Aug 7: Clashes broke out between rival groups in several areas of Lower Kurram on Thursday, leaving four people dead and three others injured.

The fresh wave of violence has sparked tension in other parts of the region.

Local people said both sides were using heavy weapons. The clashes erupted when a tractor-trolley was torched in the Bilyameen area and spread to several villages, including Ismail Khan, Haji Kali and Thagano Kali.

Supporters of the warring factions were reported to be heading towards the area.

There are also reports of clashes in the Piwar and Tari Mangal areas of Upper Kurram.

Three days ago, the administration had given the tribes 24 hours to stop fighting but neither side paid any heed to the warning.