A top American general in Afghanistan says some 30 mid-level Taleban fighters have surrendered to coalition forces this year under a reconciliation program.
The number two U.S. commander in the war-torn country, Army Major General Eric Olson, said the 30 Taleban gave themselves up in the eastern province of Khost and the southern province of Kandahar.
General Olson said they have been handed over to Afghan authorities for reintegration into society. He predicted more will follow once the government of President Hamid Karzai formally announces an amnesty under which Taleban followers can lay down their arms and return to their homes without facing prosecution.
Some 18,000 U.S. troops are hunting Taleban and al-Qaida militants in Afghanistan.
Some information for this report provided by AP, AFP.
