By our correspondent
MARDAN: A longstanding dispute over an irrigation canal in Mardan’s Toro Qasim Mira turned deadly when gunfire erupted between two groups, leaving four people dead, including three brothers. The violent clash, which unfolded in the rural settlement, sent shockwaves through the community.
According to DSP Irshad Khan, the confrontation quickly spiraled out of control, with both sides opening fire. By the time the shooting ended, three brothers lay dead along with another man. The tragedy extended beyond those involved in the dispute, as stray bullets struck three bystanders, including two young children, who were rushed to hospital for treatment.
Residents described scenes of panic as gunfire rang out, forcing families to take shelter inside their homes. Some attempted to intervene, but the intensity of the violence left little room for mediation. Police arrived at the scene shortly after, securing the area and launching an investigation into the attack.
Authorities are now working to determine the exact circumstances that led to the fatal confrontation, as tensions over land and water disputes remain a recurring issue in the region. The community, mourning the loss of lives, has called for justice and an end to such violent conflicts that continue to devastate families.
