LASHKARGAH (SW): The Independent Human Rights Organisation’s Helmand chapter has said ongoing violence in this southern province has killed or wounded up to one hundred civilians recently.
Office bearers of the IHRO’s told a press conference here on Wednesday that the lives of civilians must be ensured during the clashes. This comes at a time when the security officials have hinted to launch a massive clean-up operation against the rebels in coming days.
Government officials blame the Taliban for much of the civilian casualties. Landmines put in place by the Taliban are seen as one of the deadliest in this regard.
Muhammad Bilal Siddiqui, IHRO’s Helamand Head told journalists that women and children remain deprived of a number of basis rights here. He added that the ongoing violence has added to the misery of Helmand residents. Siddiqui regretted that neither side takes enough measure to ensure safety of the civilian.
Mirza Khan Rahimi, Governor of Helmand told Salam Watandar that work was underway on a comprehensive plan to root-out the rebels and ensure civilians’ safety. He stressed that the government forces always keep civilians’ safety in mind while conducting raids against the rebels.
Ongoing fighting in Helmand has forced hundreds of families to escape and seek refuge in relatively safe places in different parts of the country.
ENDS