WANA: Political leaders, religious scholars, the business community, and local representatives in Lower South Waziristan have called for a protest and shutdown on February 18 to express anger at lawlessness in Wana.
Multiple cases of kidnapping for ransom were reported recently in this tribal region. Those abducted included a doctor, the president of the South Waziristan Lower Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and two Customs officials. They all remained missing.
These incidents have caused widespread fear and insecurity among the local population, leaving people feeling unsafe in their own communities. The organizers urged people from all walks of life to participate in the protest during which the Wana Bazaar would remain closed.
They said peace and stability in the region required collective efforts, and it was crucial to raise voices for a prosperous Waziristan.