PUL-I-KHUMRI (PAN): The families of seven policemen killed in a clash with Taliban in the Dehna Ghori district of northern Baghlan province are blaming provincial authorities for their loss.

Taliban attacked the checkpoint in Bazarpostak area, about 8 kilometres from the district centre on Monday, killing all seven guards inside.

The families on Tuesday blamed the Baghlan police chief for the death of their sons.

Sayed Salim Shah, 50, whose son Sayed Mir Hussain was killed at the checkpoint, said: My son joined the police three months ago. When I heard the sound of shooting, I called my son and he told me that situation in the area was not good. The police chief of Baghlan had promised to send backup forces within half hour, but the cruel district chief did nothing.

He said Taliban captured the checkpoint at 11:20 am and killed all seven police.

Sayed Gowher Shah, an uncle of one those killed, said security officials could have sent a back-up force, but they didnt.

He said coalition troops are also based in Baghlan province and also did not come to their assistance.

Former police chief of Doshi, Col. Mohammad Nasir, said about 50 relatives of the dead officers were ready go to Dehna Ghori district to help, but were not allowed by the police chief.

The Baghlan police chief has denied all accusations, saying the Taliban suffered a massive defeat, with 27 killed in Dehna Ghori, and that backup police had arrived in a helicopter.

am /cas