Woman killed as armed groups clash in Taxila

Police raid houses of, arrest at least seven suspects who were involved in the clash

RAWALPINDI: A passerby was killed and three others were injured as two armed groups clashed within the remits of the Taxila police on Saturday.

A police spokesperson said that members of two opposing groups, including Ulfat Shah and Qalab Abbas Shah, were returning to their respective destinations after the hearing of a case at a local court.

However, members of both groups faced-off at Faisal Shaheed Road and started attacking each other.

Apart from trading blows, they also traded fire.

As a result, a pedestrian was caught in the crossfire. She was fatally wounded and died of her injuries.

At least three others were injured in the exchange of fire. The suspects then fled.

As the information spread, Rawalpindi City Police Officer (CPO) Ahsan Younus directed Potohar SP Syed Ali to rush to the spot and intervene.

Subsequently, Potohar SP Ali, along with a heavy contingent of police, raided the site.

After securing the area, the dead and injured were shifted to the tehsil headquarters hospital (THQ).

Later, the police raided houses of the seven people suspected to be involved in the clash. The suspects were arrested.

Police officials claimed to have seized large quantities ammunition and guns including rifles and pistols from the possession of the suspects.

Cases were registered against members of both groups and an investigation was launched. 

Published in The Express Tribune, January 5^th, 2020.