23-year-old shot dead by FC in Kohistan

Locals block traffic on Karako­ram Highwa­y; clash reportedly over alleged assault of a taxi driver

KOHISTAN: A 23-year-old man was shot dead as Frontier Corps (FC) personnel opened fire during a clash with locals in Kohistan on Saturday, Express News reported.

According to initial reports, FC personnel and locals clashed over the alleged assault of a taxi driver. An FC convoy on routine patrol at the Karakoram Highway reportedly hit a taxi leading to a heated argument between them.

"The dispute started when an ambulance of the security force hit the taxi," a Station House Officer (SHO) of Kameela area said.

Crowds gathered as FC men beat up the driver, locals said. As crowds gathered, FC men resorted to aerial firing killing a 23-year-old. The deceased was identified as Farooq son of Abdullah.

Speaking to Express News, the SHO assured said the case will be dealt as per law.

Locals blocked Karakorram Highway in protest over the killing. The road blockade led to long queues of vehicles travelling from Gilgit-Baltistan towards Rawalpindi.

PML-N MPA Abdul Sattar said he asked DIG Hazara to begin action against the accused. "The responsible FC personnel will be arrested and given punishment in accordance with the law," Sattar said.

This is a developing story and will be updated accordingly.