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Express Tribune
04-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Turi, Bangash tribes surrender arms
Security forces display a large cache of arms recovered from terrorists targeted in an operation in Sambaza Sector, Zhob. PHOTO: ISPR The Turi and Bangash tribes voluntarily handed over all types of weapons in their possession to the district administration and law enforcement agencies in Kurram tribal district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa on Sunday. This development follows the Kohat Agreement, under which both rival factions in the district agreed to surrender their arms and ammunition to the government. A special ceremony was held in Parachinar to mark the occasion. It was attended by the local brigade commander, assistant commissioner, secretary of Anjuman Hussainia, senior security officials, tribal elders, and a large number of local residents. During the event, members of the Bagdi, Lalmay, Borki, Shingak, Harlachi, and Karakhela sub-tribes voluntarily handed over their weapons. This initiative is being widely hailed as a significant step toward establishing lasting peace, restoring mutual trust, and creating a conducive environment for development in the tribal regions. Earlier in January this year, two bunkers were demolished as an initial step toward disarming the warring factions in the troubled district. Under the supervision of the Grand Peace Jirga and local peace committees, security forces demolished the bunkers at Jannat Khan Morcha (Khar Khel) and Jalandhar Morcha (Balish Khel). Kohat Commissioner Muttasim Bilal had consulted the local population regarding the demolition of the bunkers. As per the Apex Committee's decision and the peace agreement, all bunkers will be dismantled. This is considered essential for restoring peace in the area. During the demolition, security forces were stationed in Kurram Balishkhel and Khar Khel. Helicopters conducted aerial surveillance in Kurram Balishkhel. According to the district administration, the demolition of the bunkers will continue until all are removed, as per the government's decision. Under the Apex Committee's directive, weapons are also being collected. Additionally, any violations of the peace agreement will result in action by the government, as stipulated in the accord. Kurram Deputy Commissioner Ashfaq Khan said that according to the peace agreement, all bunkers in the district will be demolished and weapons collected. He said that law enforcement personnel would accompany the teams to the demolition sites. He added that after the security clearance, aid convoys would be dispatched to the region. The Kurram peace agreement, aimed at resolving a century-long conflict in the region, has reportedly led to the recruitment of 400 new personnel and the establishment of additional security measures in January this year. As part of the agreement, new checkpoints will be set up, and two FC platoons will be deployed to bolster security along the region's main roads, Express News reported. Officials said that the new security personnel will focus on safeguarding the Kurram region, which has experienced significant instability.
Express Tribune
28-01-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Surrender of illegal weapons crucial for Kurram peace
PESHAWAR: Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Secretary, Nadeem Aslam Chaudhary, has emphasized the need for surrendering all illegal weapons to ensure permanent peace, safe travel, and the enforcement of law in Kurram tribal district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Addressing Kurram Grand Jirga participants at the Commissioner House, Kohat, on Tuesday evening, the Chief Secretary underscored the critical role of community cooperation in resolving conflicts. The meeting was attended by IGP Akhtar Hayat Khan, GOC Kohat Zulfiqar Ali Bhatti, Commissioner Kohat Division Syed Mutasim Billah Shah, RPO Kohat Abbas Majeed Marwat, Deputy Commissioner Kohat Abdul Akram, and prominent parliamentarians from Kurram district. The Chief Secretary stated that while the ongoing conflict in Kurram appears to involve two groups, extremist elements are attempting to exploit the situation to fuel hatred. He called upon both parties to identify and isolate such elements to prevent them from succeeding in their malicious designs. Highlighting the government's commitment, he reiterated that the Kohat Agreement will be implemented at all costs, with full cooperation from all concerned parties. "Understanding and tolerance are imperative to protect our areas and people. This situation must not be taken lightly," he added. The Chief Secretary further assured that the rule of law will be upheld without exception. "Strict legal action will be taken against anyone violating government orders or laws. FIRs are not mere formalities; they will be executed, and culprits will face severe punishment," he warned. Emphasizing unity and collective responsibility, he called on the youth of Kurram to actively participate in peace building efforts and urged both sides to work closely with the government to maintain law and order in the region. Earlier, the Chief Secretary along with IG Police visited Hangu district, where he reviewed the facilities at a temporary relief camp established for families evacuated from certain villages in Kurram. Expressing satisfaction with the arrangements, he met with displaced citizens and assured them of the government's commitment to addressing their needs.
