Increasing targeted killings worry Ghazni residents

Monitoring Desk

GHAZNI CITY: Residents of southern Ghazni province say targeted killings have increased, with 10 people murdered in such attacks last month. One individual was killed in Qala-i-Sabz, two in Barakat Qala, two in Cinema, as many in Drayem Plan, two in Khoda-i-Dad and one in Yousafzai areas.

Roohullah, a resident of the Ghazni, told Pajhwok Afghan News targeted attacks involving silent pistols had surged. “The killings don’t happen in remote areas but near police headquarters.

“What kind of police and intelligence do we have? They cannot prevent such assaults,” the man asked, seeking effective measures to curb targeted attacks. Ahmadullah (not a real name), said his brother — a police officer — had been killed with a silent pistol some days back. “My brother was killed near a security check-post in Sabz Qala area. His killers fled the area and are yet to be captured.”

On the other hand, a police sourcetold Pajhwok on condition of anonymitythat 10 targeted killings had been recorded last month when 10 others were wounded. Other residents held similar views, calling on the central government to take effective steps and stop the practice.

Arif, the governor’s spokesman, said six individuals had been killed in targeted attacks last month. “Mostof the time policemen remain without rifles or go to places where such incidentsare common.”

He said seven suspects had been detained in connection with targeted killings and efforts were underway to capture the others as well.

But, provincial police chief Brig. Gen. Mohammad Zaman said two people were killed last month. He ordered police to bring the perpetrators to justice.