Islamabad, Aug. 10 (ANI): More than 400 Lashkar (tribal militia) members battling the Taliban in Swat, Dir and Buner regions have been killed during the past three months, it has emerged.

According to a report prepared by the Pakhtun Amn Lashkar, Taliban squads are now targeting these Lashkars more fiercely than they used to attack army troops and police officials.

“If the trend of Lashkar leaders’ murder continues, it might discourage the public and the police and armed forces’ personnel,” The News quoted Syed Kamal Shah, the former NWFP minister and convener of the Pakhtun Amn Lashkar, as saying.

Shah pointed out that the Lashkar in Matta, Kabal and Kanju had set a model of public defence against terrorism.

“They only need encouragement and they might as well prove that they are capable of routing the Taliban and discourage the trend of Talibanisation in Malakand,” he observed.

Shah urged the government to acknowledge the death of each Lashkar member by announcing handsome award money, a medal and assistance to the affected family.

“The Taliban are believed to be enrolling activists in these areas and paying them handsomely. They are known for supporting the families of the Taliban killed in action financially. Why can’t government do that for the Lashkar leaders?” he asked. (ANI)