MINGORA Militants occupied the residence of former federal minister and president Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) Amir Muqam in Bahrain, some 64 kilometres north of Mingora on Wednesday.

Dozens of well-armed militants captured the entire building and expelled the watchman, witnesses said. Amir Muqam said that over 50 Taliban were residing in the compound after forcing the watchman to leave.

Local Taliban spokesman Muslim Khan while confirming the report, said that his comrades had been staying in the house temporarily.

Earlier militants blew up the residence of veteran politician late Khan Abdul Wali Khan in Madyan last year. Houses of other politicians and influential figures often come under attack from militants.

Meanwhile, hundreds of people staged protest demonstration against occupation of houses and other buildings by the security forces in Manglawer. They were demanding evacuation of troops from these buildings.

Residents assembled at Salanda Chowk early morning, holding banners and placards.

Locals said the troops had occupied houses and mosques in the area forcing dwellers to stay in tents.

Protesters also blocked Mingora-Kalam road. Later members of the peace jirga and senior officials held talks with the protesters and assured them that forces would be moved to other places very soon, after which, the protesters dispersed peacefully.