KHAR, May 21: Unusual movement of security forces in parts of the Bajaur Agency forced bazaars and markets closed for three hours on Wednesday, with local people fearing a military operation in the troubled region.

Sources said Bajaur Scouts and Levies personnel cordoned off Khar, the agency headquarters, Yousafabad, Haji Lawang and other areas to make fresh deployment of security forces and deliver weapons’ consignment to far-flung areas.

A caravan of tanks, armoured personnel carriers and other vehicles laden with heavy arms was witnessed on the roads. Traders and shopkeepers were told on mosque loudspeakers to close their businesses.

The bazaars and markets remained closed for three hours and public transport also remained off the roads.Helicopters were seen hovering over the area to monitor the movement of the forces.

There was a curfew-like situation in the area as terrified people were forced to remain indoors from 11am to 4pm in some parts of the agency.