15 Killed, 80 wounded in Pakistani shelling: Afghan official

In the artillery attack by Pakistani forces on the “residential areas” in Spin Boldak district, Kandahar province on July 30, at least nine civilians were killed and 50 others were wounded. Now, in just 24 hours, the number has risen to 15 and 80 respectively.

The spokesman for Kandahar’s governor, Bahir Ahmadi on July 31 said that 15 people were killed in an attack by Pakistani forces on Spin Boldak, adding that women and children are among the victims.

After the attacks, the Afghan Army’s Chief of Staff Gen. Yasin Zia had directed all Army corps, including Atal 205, Selab 201 and Thunder 203 to get ready for similar actions against Pakistani forces and to equip Afghan troops who are stationed along the Durand Line.

The Afghan Air Force and the Special Forces were also ordered to stay alert for similar actions against Pakistani forces, the Afghan Defense Ministry said.

Bahir Ahmadi said the incident happened in Chaman crossing in Spin Boldak district of Kandahar. According to him, the clash continued for some time as the Afghan forces responded to the shelling by the Pakistani forces.

“At least 80 others have been wounded,” he added.

Artillery attacks by Pakistani forces on the eastern and southern parts of Afghanistan have occurred for many years, something the Pakistani government has denied.

The National Security Council in a statement said the Afghan government will follow the issue through relevant channels and will make the required action.

Meanwhile, dozens of Afghans wounded in the attack are being treated at a Kandahar hospital. Doctors said some of the wounded are children, and some of the wounded are in critical condition.

Eyewitnesses of the incident said that seven members of one family were killed in the attack and a child from the family was wounded and is being treated at Kandahar hospital.

“The attack started in a way that it was against ordinary people. There were more than 100 people injured,” said an eyewitness of the incident.