July 27, 2008	Sunday	Rajab 23, 1429

MIRAMSHAH, July 26: Political authorities on Saturday sealed shops of tribesmen for blocking a road in protest against shortage of flour in the area.

Sources said that hundreds of tribesmen had taken out a procession and blocked the main Bannu-Miramshah road. The blockade paralysed all activities in the area.

Residents of Miramshah and adjoining areas are facing a shortage of wheat and flour. Local people say that smuggling of wheat and flour to Afghanistan continues despite deployment of paramilitary soldiers.

Officials said the political authorities sealed shops of the Eidek tribe in Miramshah under the collective responsibility clause of the Frontier Crimes Regulation.

They said the political administration also suspended various incentives for the tribe. Security had been beefed up at the main checkposts.

The tribesmen said they would not end the blockade till the authorities ensure supply of sufficient flour.