KHAR, April 9: Poppy growers in Barang tehsil of Bajaur Agency have detained a 30-member jirga sent to this almost inaccessible area by the political administration to persuade them to cooperate in its operation against poppy cultivation. The jirga members were intercepted near Maimoola village and held hostage, the sources said. The local administration, however, has not confirmed the report.

The sources said that the administration was trying to secure release of the jirga and has sought the help of tribal elders. Earlier, an exchange of fire took place between security personnel and a group of poppy growers when the former had reached Barang to destroy the crop.

Unconfirmed reports said that three tribesmen had been injured in the shootout.

The sources said that the exchange of fire continued for several hours.