LANDI KOTAL: A Christian named Rashid was kidnapped and later released here in the Landi Kotal area of Khyber Agency on Sunday. According to sources, armed local Taliban kidnapped Rashid for reportedly giving a drum [musical instrument] to local people on fare. Rashid, who was kidnapped from Landi Kotal bazaar, is a younger brother of Christian Community Khyber Agency Chairman Arshad Maseeh. Some Christians alleged that several Khasadar force personnel living near Rashid’s house did not protect him, and that the political administration had failed to provide them security in Landi Kotal. Arshad Maseeh told reporters that they were afraid of extremists and militants. He said beating of drums was part of their religion and that they would beat it on the eve of their Christmas day. He said local Taliban had earlier warned them to hand over their musical instruments to them [Taliban] till January 1 or face the consequences. He condemned the political administration and Khasadars for being “silent spectators” to the militant activities and said the minorities were no longer safe in the area.