PESHAWAR, July 9: The patron-in-chief of a local peace committee has relinquished his responsibilities owing to his business activities and engagements as head of another peace body.

Addressing a press conference here on Monday, Zar Mohammad Khan said that he resigned as patron-in-chief of Bazidkhel Qaumi Lashkar because he was already heading Sheikh Mohammadi Amn Lashkar and fulfilling the additional responsibilities was impossible for him.

He said that following the murder of Bazidkhel Qaumi Lashkar chief Fahimur Rehman he was assigned the responsibilities of patron-in-chief of the body about 10 days ago but his personal activities did not allow him to accept the important duty.

“I will continue to work as head of Sheikh Mohammadi Amn Lashkar and support the local police against militants without any fear,” he vowed. He added that it was very difficult to cover the vast area and he could not work with full concentration.

Mr Khan said that he was not in a position to accept the additional responsibilities owing to his business activities. He said that no one had forced him to resign but there were many other elders, who could head the peace body.

“I am satisfied with the support of government,” he said, adding they would continue to serve the nation. He appreciated government for providing him police guards and weapons.

“My mission to protect people from militants will continue,” Mr Khan said and asked people to maintain unity in their ranks and fight against terrorists without any fear.

In Badhber area, he said, the peace-loving people considered Khyber Agency-based Lashkar-i-Islam their main enemy and they were ready to fight it for maintenance of peace in the suburban localities of Peshawar. —Bureau Report