KARACHI, Jan 10: Lyari wore a deserted look on Monday as people kept their shops, restaurants and other business establishments closed to mourn the founder of Baloch Ittehad Tehrik, Anwar Bhaijan, who was assassinated on Friday-Saturday night by an armed gang.

The call for the shutter-down was given by the Tehrik. Public transport in Lyari remained off the road and private traffic was also thin. Almost all public and private educational institutions were closed.

Due to the suspension of all business, educational and other activities during the day, a curfew-like situation prevailed in the area. A strong contingent of police was posted at the Haat Chowk near the central office of the BIT in Chakiwara to meet any eventuality.

A large number of people from different parts of the city converged on the BIT office to attend the soyem of the slain leader. On this occasion, BIT chairman Hanif Baloch vowed to continue the mission of peace and brotherhood initiated by the assassinated leader.