17 shun militancy, turn a new leaf in Nuristan

(file photo)

JALALABAD (PAN): Seventeen rebels laid down their arms and joined the government-initiated peace process in eastern Nuristan province, officials said on Monday.

Lead by Qari Abdul Khalil, the insurgents surrendered five weapons, a rocket launcher, some explosives and remote-controlled bombs, Governor Tamim Nuristani told Pajhwok Afghan News.

Khalil, an influential Taliban member who was also involved in attacks against government and foreign troops in Waigal district, gave up the insurgency and joined the reconciliation drive. 

Provincial peace process head, Haji Abdul Alim, said Khalil’s decision would help improve the security situation in the province, bordering Afghanistan.

Nuristani added the implementation of socio-economic programmes and   development projects had encouraged the insurgents join the peace process.

from Pajhwok
by Abdul Mueed Hashimi

Posted in: Afghanistan, Jalalabad, Nuristan Province, Nuristani, Qāriʾ, Taliban