By Ashrafuddin Pirzada
KHYBER: All government and private educational institutions of circle-one in Landikotal tehsil of Khyber district were closed on Monday as members of the Zakhakhel Amn committee intensified their protest against the increasing target killing incidents following the recent targeted killing of two residents, including a soldier.
The decision was taken by tribal elders and members of the Zakhakhel Jirga in the Sultankhel area amid growing concerns over the deteriorating law and order situation. The latest unrest erupted after unidentified gunmen shot dead two men, including a Pakistan Army soldier who was home on Eid leave, in a targeted attack on Friday night.
According to local sources, members of the Zakhakhel Amn committee closed all government and private boys’ and girls’ primary, middle, and high schools in Circle-I of Landikotal. Students were sent back to their homes, while educational activities were suspended until further notice.
A government primary school teacher told this correspondent that armed committee members entered schools and lowered the national flags before directing students to leave. He said education department officials had also instructed teachers to remain present at schools during official duty hours and avoid any confrontation with protesters.
“The committee members took children out of schools and told them not to return until the situation improves,” the teacher said.
Private educational institutions were also shut down as part of the protest campaign. Another teacher said many parents had already stopped sending their children to schools due to fears of violence and possible clashes.
“Parents are worried about the security situation and do not want to risk their children’s safety,” he added.
The Amn committee said the closure of schools and other government-related activities was aimed at drawing attention to the worsening security situation and demanding protection for residents in Landikotal.
Committee leaders maintained that peace and security must be restored before normal life could resume. They warned that if their demands were not addressed, they would continue boycotting government services, educational activities, and anti-polio campaigns in the area.
Meanwhile, volunteers of the committee were seen stopping motorcycle riders at various points and restricting their movement within Landikotal.
The protest movement also received political backing. Addressing the ongoing sit-in, Member of the National Assembly (MNA) Iqbal Afridi announced his full support for the protesters’ demands and assured them of every possible cooperation.
He urged residents of Jamrud, Landikotal and Bara to set aside differences and demonstrate unity in the interest of peace and stability. He stressed the need for convening jirgas and adopting a collective strategy to address the region’s challenges.
Iqbal Afridi said a larger and more organized protest movement might be necessary to secure public rights and resolve the growing security concerns. He called upon tribal elders, community leaders, and residents to remain united in their efforts for lasting peace.
The protest follows increasing public anger over targeted killings and militant violence in the region, with residents demanding immediate and effective measures from the government and security institutions to ensure the protection of civilians and restore normalcy in the tribal district.
