LAHORE: Three persons were killed and I8 injured in a clash between a rioting crowd and forces of law at Mingora (Swat) today [Feb 13], it was officially stated here today.

A Press note issued on the situation here this evening said, “the Government of West Pakistan regrets to announce that an unhappy clash between a rioting crowd at Mingora (Swat) and the forces of the local law and order led to the death of three persons and injury to 18 persons out of whom 12 have been hospitalised.

The condition of three is stated to be serious. One Frontier Constabulary man was also bit by a bullet from the rioters. The injured are being looked after properly in local hospital.

“In the morning today an unruly crowd of more than 2,000 persons tried to force their entry into the emerald mine at Mingora. When the Police reached there with the available force, the rowdy and hostile crowd fired back. One man from the force was hit by a bullet. In order to save the situation from deteriorating further and in self-defence, the force opened fire. The situation is now under control and the life in the city has returned to normal.” — Agency

Published in Dawn, February 14th, 2020