21militants surrender in Sar-i-Pul

SAR-I-PULCITY(PAN): Twenty-one militants, including their commander, jointed the peace process in the northern province of Sar-i-Pul officials said on Monday.

The rebel group, led by Ghulam Sakhi, turned in 10 weapons to the authorities on Sunday night, the provincial police chief told Pajhwok Afghan News.

The fighters were active against the government in the Darwa Band village of Sayad district, Brig. Gen. Asadullah Sherzad said.

“I joined the group six months ago,” the commander said, linking his decision to the government’s fragile writ in remote areas of the district.

“However, the security situation has now improved in our area, so we have no logic for backing militants. I want government officials not to leave us alone,” he said.

“If the peace effort continues, many will shun the insurgency and the security environment will improve,” remarked a resident of the area, Mohammadullah.

The government would provide work opportunities for the surrendering individuals, Governor Syed Anwar Ala Rahmati promised, saying reconstruction schemes would be launched if there was security in the area.

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