KHAR A large number of supporters of militants have surrendered to the Mamond tribe lashkar in the troubled Bajaur tribal region on Tuesday amid reports that tribal volunteers have consolidated their positions in the area, an official claimed.

Assistant political agent Muhammad Jamil told Dawn that Taliban's supporters in Daber, Shakaro, Shahi Tangi and Kherkai areas of Mamond sub division have laid down their arms and surrendered to the jirga.

The jirga met in Kharai Qamar on Tuesday which was attended elders and maliks of Mamond tribe. Jamil said that tribesmen who supported militants and provided them shelter had renounced militancy and vowed to fight against Taliban.

He said that Mamond's lashkar position had strengthened in the area and was a major setback for the militants. Mamond is considered stronghold of Taliban in Bajaur region. Earlier, majority of inhabitants of Mamond tribe refused to join the lashkar.

Haji Rehmatullah, who presided over the jirga, said that militants' position had further weakened in the Mamond area and tribal volunteers had set up check points to check movement of the miscreants.

Clashes have been reported between security forces and militants from Badam and Charmang areas on Monday night and Tuesday. Five militants have been killed in the clashes, according to the officials. Security forces used artillery against militants and targeted their positions.