Taliban militants have extended their control over more villages in the north-west of the country as international concern grows about the security situation in the area. Earlier this year, the Pakistani Government reached a peace deal with tribal militants in the Swat Valley that ended two years of fighting and allowed for the introduction of Islamic law. However, the militants have now spread their control into nearby villages in Buner district, broadcasting radio sermons, setting up checkpoints on main roads and ordering shops to stop selling music and films. They have apparently set up a major base in the village of Sultanwas. Speaking last night, US Secretary of State Hilary Clinton severely criticised the actions of the Pakistani Government and said the militant groups in the country now posed a "mortal threat" to world security.