Bajaur bans pillion riding for 10 days over security threats

BAJAUR: The district administration in Bajaur has banned pillion riding across the district for 10 days, invoking Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure on Thursday in response to the security situation.

The order was issued by the office of Deputy Commissioner Adnan Farid. According to Dawn, the notification said the restriction followed reports from intelligence agencies and the police department, and that the prevailing security situation and the possible use of motorcycles in terrorist activities required immediate preventive measures.

Daily Times reported that the ban took effect as soon as the notification was issued and will remain in force until November 7. It said police have set up additional checkpoints on the district's major roads to monitor compliance, and that the restriction applies to pillion riders rather than people riding alone.

The notification said law enforcement agencies needed immediate legal cover to prevent potential terrorist activity, and that anti-social elements could use motorcycles to carry out targeted attacks or disruptions, according to Daily Times. Deputy Commissioner Farid was cited as saying sufficient grounds existed for the movement restrictions.

Violators face prosecution under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code, which covers disobedience of an order lawfully promulgated by a public servant. Officials said the administration can modify or withdraw the ban before the 10 days are up if the security situation improves.

It is the second such measure in the border district in less than two months. On September 5, local authorities imposed a 15-day ban on pillion riding for comparable security reasons, Daily Times reported.

Section 144 powers are used routinely by district administrations in the country's sensitive districts and tribal areas to place temporary limits on public movement and gatherings. Officials in Bajaur said the restrictions are meant to protect the public and asked residents to cooperate with police and patrolling parties enforcing the order.