Arrest of Elders in the Border Area with Afghanistan by Pakistani Security Officials - 2004-05-30

A group of elders from the border region of Pakistan with Afghanistan have been arrested by Pakistani security officials for failing to comply with an agreement in which they committed to identify and disarm foreign militants suspected of having links to the terrorist network Al-Qaeda. Pakistani officials state that these arrests took place in South Waziristan, which is said to be a hideout for fleeing insurgents. Pakistani soldiers have launched major offensive operations to capture dissidents and insurgents who used the border area of Pakistan to attack inside Afghanistan. However, this operation was suspended two months ago due to the signing of a peace agreement between the Pakistani government and local tribal leaders. According to this agreement, those who surrender their weapons and turn away from terrorism can remain in the area, but so far, reports indicate that none of the foreigners have taken advantage of this opportunity. Pakistani officials have warned these tribes that if they do not comply with this agreement, they will face heavy financial penalties and the possible resumption of military attacks by the government.