GARDEZ (PAN): A tribal elder was killed by Taliban fighters in the Zurmat district of southeastern Paktia province on Thursday, the provincial police chief said.

The militants shot dead the elder in the Khwajagan village of Mamozai area, Brig. Gen. Abdul Ghaffar Sapi told Pajhwok Afghan News.

Requesting anonymity, a resident identified the victim as Shah Wali Agha, who was accompanied by his sons. Agha stopped the rebels from planting landmines in the area two days ago, the source said.

In a statement, the insurgents warned locals against attending the elder's funeral.

mas/mud