19 deminers kidnapped in Paktia

GARDEZ (Pajhwok): Unknown gunmen kidnapped 19 deminers in southeastern Paktia province, an official said on Sunday.

Deputy Governor Abdul Wali Sahi told Pajhwok Afghan News the abducted deminers were employees of Sterling Demining Afghanistan (SDA), and were kidnapped in the vicinity of Gardez.

Based on reports, he said, gunmen had taken the abducted men to Shahi Kot locality of Zurmat district. The kidnappers have also taken four vehicles with themselves.

Sahi said search operations have started to locate the men. He added 36 deminers were busy working in Sarwali locality and when the gunmen arrived some of them managed to escape.

No group has claimed responsibility so far.

hg/rm