MIRAMSHAH, Aug 3: At least four people were killed during a shootout between tribesmen and law-enforcement personnel in Asadkhel area of Dosalli tehsil on Friday as people in Miramshah observed a ‘black day’ against the ongoing military operation in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata), threats of direct intervention by US forces and establishment of checkpoints by army and the Frontier Corps.

The exchange of fire followed a bomb explosion moments before the arrival in Asadkhel area of a convoy of army and FC which was on way from Bannu to Razmak. The bomb, exploded by remote control, caused no casualty.

Three missiles were also fired at an FC checkpoint and the Miramshah Fort.

Local tribesmen wearing black armbands and carrying black flags marched in the streets and held a rally at Razmak Addah.

Addressing the protesters, tribal cleric Maulvi Rooman demanded immediate removal of checkpoints in Waziristan.

BAJAUR JIRGA: A 150-member jirga held talks with the local Taliban on steps to maintain peace in Bajaur Agency, our correspondent in Bajaur adds.