14-member HIA group gives up insurgency

PUL-I-KHUMRI (PAN (HIA) group has joined the government-initiated peace process in northern Baghlan province, officials said on Saturday.

Hailing from Baghlan-i-Markazi district, the surrendering men had been involved in anti-government and destructive activities in the area.

They turned in their weapons, including a machinegun and seven AK-47 assault rifles, police said.

Police chief Brig. Gen. Asadullah Sherzad told Pajhwok Afghan News the surrender would help improve the security situation in Jarhassan area and Baghlan Markazi district, where it had been active. The ex-rebels shunned the insurgency as a result of efforts by the provincial High Peace Council members, he said.

The police chief said the individuals would be offered employment opportunities and cash assistance. The commander would receive $300 (15,000afs) and each fighter 10,000afs in aid, he said.

mrh/ma