Islamabad, Oct. 20 : Following the launch of the Pakistani Army's offensive against militants in South Waziristan, people living in the tribal region of Southern Punjab are panic-stricken over the prospects of fleeing Taliban militants infiltrating into their areas.

"Taliban may take refuge in the tribal areas of Southern Punjab in the aftermath of the army Operation in SWA. Rangers should be deputed in the areas to combat any possible infiltration of Taliban escaping from the troubled area of SWA," The Nation quoted tribal elders, as saying.

Sardar Usman Buzdar, Tehsil Nazim of Tribal Area adjacent to District DG Khan, said that people of his constituency were perturbed about any possible infiltration or retaliation on part of Taliban.

"Around 350 vacant posts of Border Military Police should be manned with immediate effect to counter any possible threat from Taliban," he said adding people of the area were also ready to check and counter the infiltration of Taliban.

Some tribal areas of Southern Punjab, including Khohi Bhahara, Khohi Taiwar, Hatheeli and plain areas are being indicated as possible route of Taliban.

According to sources, District Police Officer (DPO) of the area held a detailed meeting with some of the elders, asking them to be alert and have a vigilant eye on suspicious persons in the area.

Also, sensing the grave threat of Talibanisation, some elders of DG Khan had started forming 'Lashkar' on the pattern of those set up in Swat and the country's tribal areas.