Rocket attack on transporter’s vehicle sparks protests in Swat

SWAT:

Protests erupted in Swat’s Matta tehsil on Monday following a deadly attack in Shakardara area that left three people dead and injured well-known transporter Afzal Khan Gujjar, according to protesters and police.

Members of the Gujjar community staged a protest against the attack, with protesters placing the bodies of the victims on the road and blocking the Matta-Mingora road to all traffic. Protesters said they were demonstrating against the attack on Afzal Khan Gujjar and demanded immediate arrest of those responsible.

Police sources confirmed that three people were killed in the attack that took place the night before.

According to police, unknown gunmen attacked Shakardara, an area of ​​Matta tehsil in Swat, on Sunday evening. Well-known transporter Afzal Khan Gujjar’s vehicle was targeted with a rocket launcher while he was on his way home.

Police said unknown assailants fired a rocket at Gujjar’s vehicle in Shakardara area, causing it to catch fire. After the attack, heavy gunfire was exchanged between both sides, and the shooting reportedly continued late into the night.

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Initial reports indicated that Afzal Khan Gujjar sustained injuries during the exchange of fire. Police said his young son, Bahram Khan Gujjar, and his nephew were killed on the spot. Also, a security guard died after being trapped in the burning vehicle.

Despite being wounded, Afzal Khan Gujjar reportedly returned fire on the attackers. The assailants later fled the scene.

After the incident, the police cordoned off the area and launched a search operation. According to police officials, efforts to trace the attackers are continuing and further investigations into the incident are underway.