GILGIT, April 23: The government has decided to stop the ongoing operation against outlaws in remote valleys of Tangir and Darel after getting assurance from the local people that they would help police nab the culprits.

The Minister for Health Haji Gul Bar told Dawn on Tuesday that the decision to halt the action was taken at a high level meeting at Chilas. He said the administration had decided to withdraw troops from two valleys after the local community assured of cooperation.

He said during the recent operation more than 60 outlaws had been arrested after assassination of a senior police officer.

He disclosed that the meeting was also attended by the Inspector General of Police Usman Zakria, Home Secretary Attaullah, and members of the Diamer jirga. The Jirga assured that they would make all out efforts to arrest the outlaws, he added.

Meanwhile, the health minister ordered action against those doctors who have been absenting from duty.