Taliban kills civilians for collaborating with government

LASHKARGAH (SW): The Taliban militants have executed up to 20 civilians in Helmand’s Nawa district on suspicion of collaborating with the government, locals said on Thursday.

Abdul Rahman, member of the social council in the district, told Salam Watandar that the militants might return to reclaim the district if the government forces did not launch fresh offensives to secure the restive parts. Rahman said security personnels and civilians have paid heavy sacrifices, and a large number of civilians have been killed by the Taliban on suspicion of collaborating with the government.

Aqa Mohammad, district governor, has acknowledged that up to 20 civilians have been killed by the Taliban on charges of collaborating with the government. The district governor shared concerns about fall of the district back to the Taliban if fresh clearance operation is not launched.

Commander of the 505-Bost Zone, Brig. Gen. Ghulam Dawood informed Salam Watandar that it has been days since an operation is underway in Nawa. He added threats persist that require military actions. He vowed plans are in place to reclaim restive parts back from the militants.

Salam Watandar wished to have the views of the Taliban on this matter, but repeated calls were not responded.

ENDS