Shutdown in Bajaur to protest killing of ex-senator, others in bombing

KHAR: A shutdown was observed in the Nawagai town of Bajaur tribal district on Thursday to condemn the killing of former senator Hidayatullah Khan and his four companions in a remote-controlled roadside blast a day before.

The trade centres were closed in Nawagai, the native town of the slain senator, on the call of the business community leaders and the Awami National Party.

A protest was staged as well to register anger at the recent bombing and the rising lawlessness in Bajaur.

The speakers said they had been staging protests and sit-ins to bring the worsening law and order situation in the district to the notice of the government but to no avail.

They alleged that efforts were being made to pave the way for launching a new war in the tribal areas.

The speakers said the tribal people and their elders were being targetted to achieve the purpose.