6 Afghan militiamen killed in NATO chopper strike (sparking protests)

[maddezmom]

Source: AP

6 Afghan militiamen killed in NATO chopper strike
By RAHIM FAIEZ (AP) – 11 minutes ago

KABUL, Afghanistan — Firing from NATO helicopters in an eastern province Friday killed six Afghan militiamen who had allegedly shot at the aircraft, an Afghan official said.

The incident in Khost province sparked angry protests. Hundreds of villagers shouting "Death to America" and "Long live the Taliban" carried the bodies to the provincial governor's home to protest, said Youqib Khan, the deputy provincial police chief.

"What I confirm now is six local security forces were killed by NATO's helicopters. NATO told us the militiamen fired first. We don't know who to blame," Khan said.

The militiamen, part of a community security force, worked for local tribal leaders, and were not affiliated with the Afghan government, he said.


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[Mike Marble]

1. Winning hearts and minds...