In a powerful display of collective resolve, the Hatheekhel tribe, long known for its peaceful disposition, patience, and dignity, was compelled to abandon silence after the kidnapping of two of its members triggering a decisive response that ultimately led to their safe release.
In a strongly worded declaration, elders of the Hatheekhel community stated that while their people have always prioritized peace, restraint, and coexistence, the circumstances had left them with no option but to prepare for a firm reaction. The community made it clear that the weapon now in their hands was not born of desire, but of necessity imposed by injustice.
The jirga categorically rejected the misuse of the sacred concept of jihad, condemning acts carried out in its name that included humiliation of civilians, targeting of the weak, and violence against innocents. Community leaders stressed that such actions have nothing to do with religion or honor and warned that continued aggression would be met with serious consequences.
Addressing those from within the community who were allegedly aligned with the perpetrators, the jirga issued an unequivocal ultimatum:
if the abducted individuals were not released immediately, responsibility for the consequences would rest entirely on those involved.
Following the jirga’s announcement of a possible severe response and mounting public pressure, the militants released the kidnapped individuals.
According to local sources, Ahiya Jan and his son, Laiq, who had been abducted three days earlier, were freed unharmed and have safely returned home. The pair had been forcibly taken after being stopped and removed from their vehicle in the Khargi Hotel area, an incident that had sparked widespread fear and outrage across the region.
Earlier, Hatheekhel elders had warned that failure to secure the release of the hostages would force the jirga to take hard and irreversible decisions, emphasizing that such acts of abduction would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Ultimately, the unity of the jirga and the strength of public reaction proved decisive. Faced with collective resistance, the abductors backed down and released the captives.
The safe return of Ahiya Jan and his son has been met with relief and satisfaction among local residents, while the incident stands as a stark reminder that when peaceful communities are pushed to the brink, unity and resolve can compel even armed elements to retreat.
