The local administration in Sunsari has declared the district as riot-hit zone after protesters affiliated with the agitating United Democratic Madhesi Front took to the streets with home-made weapons. Security has been tightened in the district following the declaration, with the Nepal Army personnel patrolling along the East-West highway in the areas that were declared riot-hit on Friday morning. Prohibitory orders were issued in the areas 500 meters north-south of the East-West highway stretching from Koshi Barrage to Pakali, and from Khanar to Budhikhola in Duhabi along the Itahari-Biratnagar road stretch, according to Chief District Officer Rabiraj Pantha. He said all sorts of demonstrations, protests and assemblies have been banned in the prohibited zones. Meanwhile, large number protesters have gathered in Laukahi of the district with home-made weapons after Army was deployed in other areas.