7 killed as gunmen attack civilian vehicle

GARDIZ (Pajhwok): At least seven people were killed in an attack on a civilian vehicle in the Janikhel district of southern Paktia province, an official said.

The vehicle carrying a woman to a health centre for a post-natal check-up came under attack from unidentified gunmen in Bal Khail area.

The woman, her newborn baby and five others were killed, Sabari district police chief Lt. Qudrat Matonwal told Pajhwok Afghan News.

He said the car first came under rocket attack followed by gunfire. The fatalities included three women and a baby. He believed the assault was the result of personal enmity.

Paktia police spokesman Azim also confirmed the incident but said five people were killed in the attack. But another official, who wished not to be named, said seven people were killed in the incident.

mds/mud