SUKKUR, June 12: Over 50 properties, including houses, shops, godowns and garages, were sealed by the excise department on Wednesday in a drive against defaulters, which caused panic in the city.

The president of the Sukkur Small Traders, Haji Haroon Memon, condemned the attitude of the excise department and said many such buildings were also sealed which were not in default.

The excise police also sealed the buildings, garages and shops, which were on rent and the tenant had not been given any prior notice.

Mr Memon alleged the police of misbehaviour and said they disgraced the womenfolk and harassed them.

He also alleged that the authorities had extorted money in many cases and those who paid illegal gratification were given time to clear their dues.

He demanded of the Sindh governor to institute an inquiry into the matter.

When this correspondent tried to contact the director of the excise and taxation department, he was not available to comment on the situation.