LANDI KOTAL: The security forces on Thursday imposed curfew in parts of Landi Kotal and conducted a search operation after receiving information about the movement of some suspected militants.

Announcements were made on loudspeakers of local mosques while the forces fired in the air to alert residents of Ashkhel, Mukhtarkhel and some parts of Khugakhel to remain inside their homes during the curfew hours.

The forces conducted a targeted search operation in the areas where curfew was imposed and took into their custody at least 40 residents. They were later released after questioning.

Officials said that some arms and ammunition were also recovered during the operation. Landi Kotal bazaar and the main Peshawar-Torkham Highway remained open during the curfew timings.

The restrictions were lifted at around 2:00pm and the residents were allowed to go to bazaar to purchase necessary items.

Meanwhile, a minor child was injured when an explosive device planted along roadside exploded in Shagai area of Jamrud tehsil on Thursday.

In Landi Kotal, at least 10 persons were injured in two separate road accidents while a dozen women fainted after drinking contaminated water in Pasedkhel area.

Published in Dawn, August 1st, 2014