SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: Unidentified assailants shot dead a tribal elder in Wana tehsil of Lower South Waziristan district on Tuesday, the police confirmed.

They said Bismillah, belonging to Wazir Khowajalkhel tribe, was shot dead in Dabkot area with the attackers fleeing the scene after the assault. The police launched a search operation, but no arrests were made as yet.

The family said Bismillah had no personal enmity. Sources said he was an active figure in both tribal and social matters and his killing is being viewed as a case of targeted assassination.

It is pertinent to mention here that just days earlier, Bismillah’s close associate, Malik Daiyan Malikkhel, was also gunned down in a similar fashion. Three others were critically injured in the attack. Both the incidents are being seen as connected, fueling a sense of deep insecurity among residents.

Local residents and political leaders have repeatedly urged the federal and provincial governments to take immediate and coordinated action to restore peace in the region.

The deteriorating security situation poses not only a threat to lives and livelihoods but also undermines state authority and public confidence.

SECTION 144: In a move to ensure peace and prevent any untoward incident during upcoming Eidul Azha, the Lower South Waziristan district administration imposed Section 144 for 10 days.

According to a notification issued on Tuesday by deputy commissioner Nasir Khan, the restrictions aim to protect public life and property, maintain social order and prevent large gatherings or potentially dangerous activities that may lead to disturbances.

The notification banned firing in air, sale and use of toy guns, fireworks, and pressure horns, citing these as major contributors to noise pollution, panic, and possible accidents during festive periods.

Additionally, the administration prohibited one-wheeling, dangerous car stunts, including drifting, and the use of vehicles with tinted windows.

Recreational activities at all water bodies, including dams, rivers, lakes, and ponds, have also been suspended for the duration of the restriction. Swimming, boating, paddling, and fishing are strictly forbidden to prevent drowning incidents and manage crowd control at such locations. DC Nasir warned that any violation of Section 144 would lead to firm legal action without exception.

Published in Dawn, June 4th, 2025