Two shepherds killed by militants in Chitral

Decamped with 300 heads of cattle; locals voice concerns over security

CHITRAL: At least two shepherds were reportedly murdered by militants in Ghari, Chitral on Friday morning. Their cattle was also stolen.

According to locals, 30 militants stormed into a farmland of Bumboret and opened fire on shepherds. Following an exchange of fire for two hours, the militants murdered two shepherds – Noor Ahmed and Khosholi.

The militants also decamped with 300 heads of cattle to Nooristan, Afghanistan. They managed to escape the site before the police and security personnel arrived. The police, security forces and Chitral Levies cordoned off the area.

Without protection

A large number of locals — who belong to the Kalash tribe — have voiced their outrage over the incident. Many of them believe they are not adequately protected.

“Militants are trying their best to wipe out our entire tribe,” a local said. “However, the government has not made any efforts to protect us.”

According to another local, facilitators of terrorists are ubiquitous and have targeted and kidnapped several members of the community.

Saifullah, a representative of Kalash tribe, told The Express Tribune he was deeply saddened by the incident.

“Such incidents are taking place despite the presence of security forces, the police and Chitral Levies in the area,” he said. “This shows how incompetent these officials are.”

Imran Kabir, a minority member of the district council, told The Express Tribune duty officers should be vigilant and provide protection to the people.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 30^th, 2016.