Khan said that the federal and provincial governments are strengthening and equipping the police force in the division so that the militants are unable to stage a comeback. Besides providing facilities and funds, more vacancies for officers and cops have been created for Malakand.

Pakistan has been hit by a string of terror strikes, including massive bombings, since early October. The Taliban guerrillas have dramatically increased the terror attacks ever since the army stepped up their assault in mountainous South Waziristan.

The International Islamic University in the national capital was targeted by twin suicide bombers Oct 20 following which a decision was taken to shut down schools and colleges throughout the country. While some of the educational institutions reopened after a brief while, some private schools extended the closure period.

The school authorities have demanded adequate security for their institutions.