Taliban militants from Bajaur Agency hiding across the border in Afghanistan claimed responsibility for abducting 23 youths on second day of Eid Ul Fitr on Tuesday.
A Bajaur militant, introducing himself as Mullah Dadullah, said the number of captives is 23 and all were sons or close relatives of tribal elders who had constituted lashkar’s against them. “This is why the fate of these youth will be decided by Taliban shura,” he said.
He alleged a large number relatives of the Taliban including women and children were in the custody of Pakistani security forces. However, he revealed no demands. It is expected that they shall eventually demand the release of accomplices imprisoned in Pakistan.
More than 30 peopel were picked up by Taliban militants on September 1 when they entered the border areas of Kunar province of Afghanistan. Later around 10 boys were freed while the remaining were made Taliban hostages. Taliban militants had already claimed responsibility for kidnapping.
Mamoond tribe elders from Bajaur Agency are already in contact with their counterparts from Kunar province of Afghanistan for the early and safe recovery of the abducted boys. Kunar Governor Fazal Ullah Wahidi is, also, taking interest securing the release of the abducted boys.