Pakistan frees 50 tribesmen to restore normalcy in tribal region
IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency
Islamabad, June 29, IRNA
Pakistan-Tribesmen
Authorities in Pakistan's volatile North Waziristan tribal region have freed some 50 people in the last 24 hours in a move to restore normalcy in the area, tribesmen said on Thursday.
It is believed that the decision has been taken as a goodwill gesture in response to a temporary ceasefire by the local Taliban to give a chance to traditional tribal jirga or council of elders to find out a solution.
Authorities in Miranshah, the headquarters of North Waziristan, said there were no solid charges against the freed tribesmen.
Majority of those freed included local traders and drivers, who were arrested under a law in tribal area that the whole community would be held responsible if any individual of their tribe commits a crime.
The local Taliban in their ceasefire announcement had put one of the conditions that all arrested men should be released.
It is hoped that prisoners' release would decrease tension between the government and militants.
Local Taliban on Thursday distributed a statement in North Waziristan, announcing to honor their one-month ceasefire.
They have also asked for the complete withdrawal of troops from Waziristan and abolition of roadside security check posts.
They lifted a ban on tribal elders to meet government officials, saying elders can meet officials to facilitate a grand jirga.
2020/235/1420
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