4 spikers dead in gunfire triggered by testy exchanges

MAHMOOD RAQI (Pajhwok): Four volleyballers have been killed and a fifth wounded after a verbal dispute turned violent in the Tagab district of central Kapisa province, an official said on Sunday.

Police spokesman Mohammad Ayub Yousafzai confirmed to Pajhwok Afghan News the incident that took place in a Taliban-controlled area of the district.

Firdous, a resident of the locality, said a verbal dispute erupted among the spikers during a match. Later on, a supporter of one side opened fire, killing four players and wounding a fifth.

“Both sides belonged to the same village and the same family. Every afternoon, people come to the valley to play volleyball, cricket and football,” he added.

According to the police spokesman, the clash occurred due to a personal dispute and the accused party managed to flee the area. He promised security forces would soon launch an operation to flush out militants.

nh/mud