KHAR: The authorities on Sunday banned interestbased transactions in Bajaur Agency and decided to take stern action against the violators.

The step was taken upon the recommendations of elders and religious leaders during a jirga held at the political compound here, which was chaired by political agent Abdul Amir Khattak.

Issues related to maintenance of peace and stability and to boost socioeconomic activities in the agency came under discussion at the gathering called by the political administration.

The participants expressed satisfaction over the law and order situation in the agency, and were optimistic that remnants of antipeace elements would beeliminated soon.

However, the participants noted that narcotics peddling, sale of spurious medicines and interest-based bargains had gained impetus in the absence ofany check by the administration.

They urged the officials to take strict action against the people involved in drug peddling, fake medicines and interest-based businesses.

The political agent promised to promptly act against the drug peddlers and the medicine stores involved in trade of spurious drugs. He also assured the elders of taking action against the elements involved in interestbased business. He said Rs3 million would be imposed on those found involved in interest-based transactions, besides facing up to 10 years in prison.Correspondent