KHYBER
The tribesmen of Koki Khel demanded repatriation of Internal Displaced Persons (IDPs) of Rajgal, Tirah Valley to their homes in a protest sit-in, initiated at Pak-Afghan road at Bugyari checkpost, Jamrud on Thursday.
Because of the protest the Pak-Afghan highway was suspended for all kinds of traffic at the checkpoint.
It is to be mentioned here that the Koki Khel tribe wanted repatriation of their IDPs to their home towns in Rajgal, Tirah Valley.
Hundreds of Koki Khel tribesmen from different walks of life including IDPs of Rajgal gathered at Bugyari checkpoint and initiated a protest sit-in on the Pak-Afghan main highway blocking it for traffic in favor of their demands.
Speaking on the occasion head of the protestors,Naseer Ahmad Koki Khel said that they had been agitating for the last three weeks and jirgas had been conducted with high authorities including Chief Minister of Pakhtunkhwa but to in avail.
Our co-tribesmen IDPs serving their lives under poverty therefore it is their right to repatriate them with honor and extend them financial support for their property loss as granted to IDPs other areas, he added.
The protestors went on that they wanted a peaceful solution of the issue and expected the concerned authorities to address their matter on priority basis.
Until acceptance of their demands they will not resume the Pak-Afghan road, they threatened.
On the other hand due to blockade export and import was halted and supply of edibles to Landi Kotal, Ali Masjid and other areas was suspended at Pak-Afghan road and the passengers utilized an alternative, lengthy and mountainous, Shelman –Molagori road for their travel.
