Tribal elders and community representatives in Bannu and Kurram have pledged cooperation with ongoing efforts to maintain peace, strengthen security and address local challenges, including drug abuse, smuggling and illegal cross-border movement.
In separate jirgas, participants discussed ways to improve law and order through community engagement, discourage activities that threaten stability and strengthen coordination between local residents and the relevant authorities.
In Bannu, elders from the Bakakhel national jirga expressed their commitment to supporting police efforts to maintain peace and curb the spread of drugs, particularly among young people.
The discussions focused on the need for effective measures against narcotics and greater community involvement in protecting the younger generation from substance abuse. The elders assured the police of their continued cooperation in addressing security concerns and tackling social problems affecting the area.
Participants emphasized that sustained cooperation between law enforcement agencies and local communities was essential to preventing criminal activity and strengthening public safety.
Kurram Jirga Discusses Border Security and Road Access
Separately, a jirga involving elders from eight villages in the Kharlachi sector was held at Kharlachi Fort in Kurram to discuss the security situation and the protection of communities living along the border.
The meeting focused on joint efforts to maintain peace, prevent smuggling and discourage illegal cross-border movement. Local elders and community representatives were urged to play an active role in preventing activities that could undermine security in the area.
Participants also discussed the potential impact of social media activity that could damage peace and communal harmony. The meeting stressed the need to prevent local disputes and external influences from escalating into wider instability.
During the jirga, local elders requested the reopening of the road between Parachinar and Sadda to facilitate public movement and ease difficulties faced by residents. They also appreciated the Pakistan Army’s efforts to maintain peace in the area and pledged continued cooperation.
The request for the road’s reopening highlighted the importance of balancing security requirements with residents’ need for access, mobility and everyday services.
Community Engagement Seen as Essential to Lasting Peace
The two jirgas highlighted the role of tribal elders and community representatives in supporting security efforts at a local level. From countering drug abuse in Bannu to addressing border-related concerns in Kurram, the discussions emphasized collective responsibility for preventing instability.
Local cooperation can help authorities better understand community concerns, discourage criminal activity and resolve disputes before they escalate. In border areas, coordination is particularly important in addressing smuggling and illegal movement while responding to residents’ practical needs.
The meetings concluded with assurances of continued cooperation in support of peace and stability. Participants in the Kurram jirga were also served refreshments at the conclusion of the gathering.
