QUETTA: A leader of a banned militant organisation and seven other members of the group surrendered themselves to tribal elders and government authorities in Dera Bugti on Thursday.

At a ceremony Nehalan Bugti and his seven aides handed over their weapons to Wedera Bashir Chandrazai Bugti.

Nehalan along with his men was operating in Haft Wali, Zain Koh and Dera Bugti. They were involved in attacks on security forces and gas installations and other terrorist activities.

The former militants swore that they would remain loyal to Pakistan. They said they had abandoned armed struggle and decided to join the mainstream for the development and prosperity of Balochistan.

The tribal elder of Bugti tribe and local officials welcomed their decision and said the government under a reconciliation package would extend financial assistance for their rehabilitation and would provide security to all those who had joined the mainstream politics.

Published in Dawn, June 2nd, 2017