Jirga promises help against militants.

LAKKI MARWAT -- Elders of Marwat and Bittani tribes on Thursday announced that they would help law-enforcement and security agencies maintain peace in the region and won't allow terrorists to use their soil for carrying out their activities.

The announcement was made in a jirga called by the district administration in line with the government's policy to engage elders for peace efforts.

A government team comprising deputy commissioner Fazal Akbar, district police officer Ziauddin Ahmed, additional DC Dr Tariqullah, AC Najamullah Dawar and DSP Iqbal Momand participated in the meeting.

Elder Malik Qadir Khan Betanni said the residents won't allow anyone to disturb peace and use their soil to challenge the government's writ.

The DC said militancy was a major...