United against terror: Jirga reiterates support for govt peace efforts

Political agent announces release of tribesmen detained for minor offences

GHALLANAI: Mohmand tribal elders announced their backing of the government’s efforts of peace restoration in the agency. The jirga in Ghallanai on Thursday was held after a number of tribesmen were abducted and killed over the past few days.

It was attended by Mohmand Political Agent (PA) Khushal Khan, Mohmand Rifles Commandant Umar Haider Bukhari, as well as the elders of Haleemzai and Safi tribes.

Khushal Khan hailed the role of Mohmand tribal elders in enforcing the Frontier Crimes Regulations (FCR) and the sacrifices they rendered in supporting the government against militants. Khushal said Mohmand Agency was cleared of militants, after successful military action, with the help of the elders.

Those who challenge the writ of the state will be dealt with an iron fist and for that the administration requires the continual support of the tribes, added the PA.

He maintained all weapons must be registered with the administration or tribal elders.

Minor offences

Haleemzai peace committee leader Malik Muhammad Ali Haleemzai and Safi tribe’s representative Malik Dari Khan appealed to the administration to release tribesmen detained for petty offences. The political agent honoured the request and announced their release.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 4^th, 2014.