Bannu jirga backs action against militancy

A grand jirga held in Bannu on Thursday strongly condemned recent terrorist activities in the district and called on the government to take immediate and effective measures to eliminate militancy from the region.

The gathering brought together local elders, community leaders, and public representatives from both the national and provincial assemblies. Senior government officials, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah and Inspector General of Police Zulfiqar Hameed, also attended the meeting.

During the jirga, participants expressed full support for the government and law enforcement agencies in their ongoing efforts against terrorism. The members praised the police for their actions against militants in Bannu and emphasized the need for continued operations to restore lasting peace in the area.

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The jirga demanded that the police be given a leading role in counterterrorism operations in Bannu and called for the force to be equipped with modern weapons, technology, and other necessary resources. Participants stressed that strengthening local law enforcement would improve the effectiveness of security operations and help address emerging threats.

Local elders also proposed the formation of a committee comprising respected community representatives. The committee would work closely with the commissioner and deputy inspector general of police to support efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in the district.

In addition, jirga members expressed a desire to engage directly with the leadership of law enforcement agencies to ensure better coordination and strengthen joint efforts against terrorism.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah assured participants that the provincial government was utilizing all available resources to maintain law and order. He reiterated that peace and public safety remain top priorities for the government.

The chief secretary said that police and other security agencies, with the cooperation of local communities, would continue their efforts to eliminate militancy from the region. He also noted that the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) was being further strengthened and equipped to effectively combat militant threats.