Two dozen tribesmen freed

Handed over to traditional jirga of Utman Wazir tribe in Bannu through political administration

BANNU:

Over two dozen ‘suspected’ tribesmen, belonging to North and South Waziristan, have been freed by the security agencies after conducting thorough investigation. They were handed over to the traditional jirga of Utman Wazir tribe in Bannu through the political administration.

At least 28 people were arrested during the military operation Zarb-e-Azb against the militants in North Waziristan Agency. All the tribesmen have been declared “cleared” by the security forces after the scrutiny.

A jirga, for release of the 28 tribesmen, was held in Bannu where the administration was represented by Assistant Political Agent North Waziristan Manzoor Afridi.

Speaking on the occasion, Manzoor Afridi appreciated tribal elders for rendering tremendous sacrifices and experiencing miseries during the operation.

“In fact, all credit goes to these tribesmen for making Zarb-e-Azb a successful story by abandoning homes and extending support to the security forces,” he remarked, adding that now the government with the help of these tribesmen determined to maintain peace and writ of law in all over North Waziristan.

The assistant political agent also assured tribal elders about release of other suspects as the investigation is underway. He said only militants will be taken to task and the innocent people will be released.

He called upon the tribal elders to fulfill their responsibilities in purging their territories of militants and also ensuring the writ of law.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 18^th, 2015.