KHAR, Oct 28: A number of supporters of militants surrendered to the Mamond lashkar on Tuesday amid reports that tribal volunteers have consolidated their positions in the Bajaur region.

Assistant Political Agent Mohammad Jamil told

Dawn that Taliban’s supporters in Daber, Shakaro,

Shahi Tangi and Kherkai areas of the Mamond subdivision had laid down arms before a jirga, renounced militancy and vowed to fight against the Taliban.

Elders and maliks of Mamond tribe attended the jirga in Kharai Qamar.

Mr Jamil said the development was a big setback for militants because Mamond was considered to be their stronghold in Bajaur.

Haji Rehmatullah, who presided over the jirga, said that the volunteers had set up checkpoints to monitor the movement of militants in the area.

On Monday night and Tuesday, five militants were killed in clashes with security forces in Badam and Charmang areas.

Officials said that security forces had attacked militants’ positions with artillery.