TARIN KOT (SW): Taliban have besieged Tarinkot, the provincial capital of southern Urozgan province days after their bid to overrun it was thwarted.
Dost Mohammad Nayab, spokesman for the provincial governor has said that the rebels are still present on the northern outskirts of the city, and aim to break the security ring around the provincial capital in the night. He claimed that the security forces have killed up to 50 rebels in these clashed during the past some days. Nayab went on to say that the situation has led to unrest in a number of nearby districts.
The spokesman noted that the Taliban are also trying to overrun Gezab district, but the security forces are vigilant, and are carefully acting against the militants to avoid civilian casualties. He confirmed that so far nine civilians have lost their lives in these clashes. The locals however, claim the figure of civilian casualties is higher.
Dost Mohammad Nayab also informed about a security operation underway to re-establish road link with Kandahar province. He claimed that six check posts on this highway have been reclaimed from the rebels, and efforts are underway to ensure full security of the passengers on this route.
A day earlier, the provincial police chief and director for security were replaced with new officials. Syed Agha Saqib, former police chief for Kandahar and Herat provinces has now taken charge as police chief in Urozgan.
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