KHAR, June 26: The elders of Mamond tribe in Bajaur Agency have assured the administration of its full support in maintaining writ of the government in the region.

Tribesmen were fully alert to encounter cross border militant attacks in their area, they told a jirga held here the other day.

Hundreds of elders belonging to different sub-tribes of Mamond and leaders of peace committees participated in the jirga, which was also attended by Political Agent Abdul Jabar Shah and other senior officials.

The jirga discussed law and order situation in the area, cross border militant attacks and status of local peace committees in the region.

Addressing the jirga, the political agent claimed that the tribal region was cleared of militants and writ of the government was restored.

“But it does not mean that militants have been eliminated completely. The threats are imminent because they (militants) are living near the border areas,” he said.

Mr Shah said that militants could move towards the border areas of the agency as Nato forces in Afghanistan were developing pressure on them. “The Sunday’s attack in Upper Dir district is a solid proof of it,” he said.

He lauded tribesmen for rendering sacrifices in elimination of militants and restoration of peace in the area. “We are proud of the sacrifices of the tribal elders,” he added.

The jirga was also addressed by Malik Abdul Aziz, Malik Saeedur Rahman, Malik Ayaz Khan, Malik Faqir, Malik Satar Khan, Malik Taj Khan and others.

They said that peace committees were fully alert in all the area and several new peace committees had been formed in the border areas to check movement of militants and counter attacks from across the border.

They said that more volunteers would be deployed at the checkposts established along the border.