KARACHI: Fear and panic spread in parts of Karachi as shops and markets were being shut down in several areas of the city on Wednesday, DawnNews reported.

Businesses in the areas were being forced to shut by unknown men and panic rose as a result of aerial firing in parts of the city.

Markets in the areas of Saddar, Ranchchore Line, Kharadar and Jodia bazaar were also shutting down.

Similarly, businesses had suspended in the areas of Gulistan-i-Johar, Gulshan-i-Iqbal, Gulberg, Malir, Landhi and Korangi areas.

Petrol pumps were also shutting as soon as firing was reported in various city areas.

Meanwhile, a bus was set on fire by unidentified men in Landhi.

Panic in the areas also led to traffic jams on several roads and intersections.

Karachi Transport Ittehad president Irshad Bukhari told Dawn.com that all public transport vehicles were being recalled in light of the uncertain security situation in the city.

Moreover, shops were also being forced shut in parts of Hyderabad and there were reports of aerial firing in the city.

Reports of violence were also received from some other cities of Sindh. Armed men forced the traders to close businesses in Mirpur Khas, Nawabshah and Sukkur.