Violent protests leaves 2 dead, 8 injured in northern Afghanistan

According to reports, at least two people were killed and eight others were injured following violent protests in northern Samangan province of Afghanistan on Tuesday. The protesters were reportedly calling on the provincial governor to resign from his position, and had gathered near government compound when the incident took place. Provincial council chief, Mohammad Zia said clashes took place among the governor’s security guards and protesters, which left two people dead and eight others injured. The protesters accuse provincial governor, Khairullah Batash for being involved in corruption along with a number of the local government officials. Provincial police chief, Mohammad Aslam Begzad confirming the report said two protesters were killed and eight others were injured, after gunmen among the protesters opened fire. He said an Afghan senator along with his armed supporters were also among the protesters, who attacked the governor’s office. Demonstration against Khairullah Batash started a week ago, and hundreds of Samangan residents took to the streets and called for his immediate resignation.