Jirga demands end to quadcopter attacks, curfew in S. Waziristan

On Tuesday, a jirga convened in the Shaktoi area of South Waziristan to express concern over alleged quadcopter strikes on residential areas and repeated imposition of curfew. Organized by the All Political Alliance, Upper South Waziristan, the assembly featured Mehsud tribal elders, ulema, and various political and social figures.

Resolutions passed at the jirga called for an end to mortar firing and quadcopter strikes that put lives and property at risk, urging authorities to safeguard residents from unnecessary danger. The participants emphasized the need for coordination between authorities and residents to tackle public concerns. They advocated for lifting the curfew, allowing patients, the elderly, and those with urgent medical or other needs to pass through during curfew hours.

The jirga also highlighted the challenges residents face at security checkpoints, with some closing early, causing inconvenience for those traveling between areas. They demanded that checkpoints remain open for extended hours to ensure smooth movement. The assembly further discussed the installation of speed-breakers at checkpoints, asserting that three speed-breakers in one place posed difficulties for patients, the elderly, and other travelers.

They urged that speed-breakers be placed at safe intervals to facilitate traffic flow. Additionally, they pointed out the lack of basic communication facilities, such as poor mobile phone and internet services, in Shaktoi, calling for improved infrastructure.