KARACHI, Aug 20: Tension gripped various parts of Orangi and New Karachi towns where some youths pelted vehicles with stones and lit bonfire in protest against the results of a union council on Saturday.

The news about the victory of Haq Parast group in UC-11 Mominabad spread like wildfire in the area and their opponents took to the street, lit bonfire and blocked traffic movement. The protesters also pelted vehicles with stones and opened fire in the air. Subsequently, shops and markets in adjoining areas were closed down.

However, law and order was brought under control by police and Rangers personnel who conducted a light baton-charge to disperse the protesters.

In Gabol Town, Sector-I of New Karachi, the opponents of Haq Parast group took to the street, raised slogans against its victory and accused the government of rigging in the local body polls. They also blocked traffic movement on some roads.

Heavy contingents of police and Rangers were deployed in the area to bring the law and order under control. They kept on patrolling different roads and streets in Mominabad and Gabol Town to maintain peace. However, shops remained closed till Saturday evening.