SWABI, Jan 9: At least 41 illegal FM radio stations have been closed down by law-enforcement agencies accusing them of inciting hatred and spreading sectarianism in Swabi district, sources told Dawn on Monday.

The stations were located in Salim Khan, Purmolai, Safroona, Gandaf, Tandkohi, Zaida, Murghuz, Baja, Panjpir, Maneri Bala, Maneri Payan, Sahmansoor, Turland, Dagai, Palodand and other areas.

An official said police stations concerned had been asked to seize equipment from illegal radio stations in their areas.

All of the stations had been established by ulema in religious institutions and they were broadcasting programmes in the mornings or evenings. All the programmes were based on Islamic teachings and they had a significant influence among women.

Police officials said some ulema were using their programmes to target each other.