SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: A tribal elder belonging to Sulemankhel tribe was shot dead by unidentified assailants in Azam Warsak area of Birmal tehsil, Lower South Waziristan, on Sunday, the police said.

The deceased, identified as Torabi and a resident of Zarmelan area, was travelling from Azam Warsak to his home when gunmen opened an indiscriminate fire on his vehicle at the Guldona Ghundai point.

As a result of the gun attack, he died on the spot.

The assailants managed to flee immediately after the incident.

Lower South Waziristan district police officer Mohammad Tahir Shah Wazir told Dawn efforts were under way to ascertain the motive behind the killing and to trace those involved.

The body was shifted to a nearby hospital for completion of legal formalities.

The DPO said that the incident apparently appeared to be an act of terrorism.

Police officials said that Birmal tehsil had witnessed a worrying surge in militant and criminal activity over the past year.

Incidents of bomb blasts, targeted killing, kidnappings for ransom, and attacks on police and security forces have increased significantly, creating an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among residents.

Local people have expressed serious concern over the deteriorating law and order situation and urged the authorities to take immediate and effective measures to restore peace.

They stressed the need for enhanced security arrangements and decisive action against militant and criminal elements to ensure the protection of lives and property in the area.

Published in Dawn, December 15th, 2025