March 24, 2008	Monday	Rabi-ul-Awwal 15, 1429

BANNU, March 23: A grand jirga (assembly of tribal elders) on Sunday decided to establish an Amn Lashkar (peace force), having 200 strong men, to fight militants and ensure peace in the Banda Daudshah area, adjacent to Frontier Region Bannu.

Participants of the jirga unanimously approved formation of the peace force, which would set up patrolling parties to keep watch on anti-social activities and arrest or kill troublemakers. The whole population would extend backing hand to the force in performing duties. The peace force would be equipped with latest arms to make them able to fight the miscreants.

The jirga decided Rs200,000 for the dead and Rs50,000 for an injured member of the peace force as compensation during the fight against militants. The compensation money would be provided by the people of area on self-help basis.

Malak Sher Ali Baz Khan, Malak Haji Nazal Khan and Master Wali Ayaz Khan and others addressed the jirga. They expressed concern over the growing militancy and deteriorating law and order situation in the area. — Correspondent