Peace returns to Swat: Kayani

SWAT – Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani has said that peace has been fully restored in Swat due to a successful military operation.
Speaking at a function here at Wadudia Hall on Saturday, General Kayani lauded the role of Pakistan Army and people of Swat. He said that Pak Army for the sake of the country rendered a lot of sacrifices and around 550 soldiers embraced martyrdom while 1,500 others got injured in the operation against militants. He maintained that militants had been eliminated from Swat with the support of the dwellers and the whole nation. He said it was the duty of security forces to protect people of Swat, adding Government and Pak Army would work side by side for Swat uplift. He said he was very happy to visit Mingora and meet general public there.
On this occasion, students presented different tableaux and sang songs. The Chief of Army Staff also met students and elders of the area.
General Kayani also visited tehsil Barikot and inspected Tirang High School and Bilal Mosque in Shamozo Zara Khela area.
Earlier, In-Charge Operation Rah-e-Rast, General Ashfaq Nadeem, briefed General Kayani about the law and order situation of Swat and Malakand Division. Corps Commander Peshawar Masood Aslam was also present on the occasion. Mingora-Saidu Sharif Road was closed for general traffic due to arrival of Army Chief.