Second phase of Kukikhels' return to start after demining of their areas.

KHYBER -- The second phase of repatriation of displaced Kukikhel families would start after completion of a demining exercise in the areas to which they will return, according to security officials.

They were talking to Kukikhel elders during a meeting in Thor Darra area of Tirah the other day. The meeting was attended by Brig Razaul Hasan, Col Taimur Khurshid Khan, Tirah Rifles Commandant Khurram Shehzad and Kukikhel elders including Malak Faizullah Jan, Barkat Khan, Haji Maveez Khan, Haji Saleem and others.

The meeting was convened to discuss the second phase of the return of displaced families. The tribal elders were told that bomb disposal squad officials were busy in clearing the Sipah-inhabited areas of mines where the displaced families have started returning on June 13.

Officials said that they were aware of the risks attached to the presence of countless mines in the Kukikhel area and wanted to clear and defuse all hidden explosives objects prior to announcing a final schedule for return of displaced families in the second phase.

Officials assure elders of comprehensive relief package

The Kukikhel elders told security officials on the occasion that families, who had earlier returned to Zarmanza locality of Rajgal, complained about presence of landmines planted by militants in their agricultural lands and near their residential compounds prior to their fleeing of the area...

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