Ex-militants: 63 men released from rehabilitation centre

The former militants were caught by the army during an offensive against the Taliban insurgency in Swat.

MINGORA: Sixty-three young men, captured by the army during the Taliban insurgency in Swat, were released from Mashal Rehabilitation Centre on Tuesday.

A ceremony in this regard was held at the centre where Peshawar Corps Commander Lieutenant General Khalid Rabbani was the chief guest, while Malakand Operational Commander, Major General Sanaullah Niazi and other officers of the Pakistan Army also attended.

During the ceremony, the rehabilitated youth took oath that they would not support any terrorist organisation and will be law-abiding citizens.

National songs, skits, speeches and folk songs on Rabab were performed by the youth in the programme which was highly appreciated by the audience.



In his address, General Rabbani appreciated the struggle of the army and support of the locals in restoring peace in the region. “No terrorist element will be allowed to sabotage the hard-earned peace of Swat.”

Many young men were recruited by militants during the Swat insurgency to carry out anti-state activities. After the military operation, these men were arrested and admitted to rehabilitation centres run by the Pakistan Army. Almost, 1,132 youth have been rehabilitated and released till now.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 24^th, 2013.