Raid by special forces conducted in Ashgabat
14.09.2008
TIHR
The drinking water plant in Khitrovka (the city district located in the northern part of Ashgabat) has been under fire by the armoured vehicles for two days. The alarming rumors are spreading in the city. According to an unconfirmed report, religious terrorists have invaded the city.
Early this week the information was spread by word of mouth that some security forces personnel patrolling the city, which is as a rule comprised by a police officer and two conscripts, were killed. This allegedly happened after the security forces attempted to detain suspects in the armed robbery. However, another source reported later that two radical Islamist militants were held accountable for the killing. At present the photos of two wanted men, the citizens of Turkmenistan, have been posted in Ashgabat.
The witnesses confirmed hearing gunfire all day long on 12 September and through the night of September 13. Moreover, armored vehicles were seen at the scene of the shooting. The gun battle resulted in casualties with several soldiers and law enforcement officers killed.
The official press did not report on the incident. The alarmed city residents are trying in vain to find any information on the recent developments in the newspapers. According to the state print media, only the significant socio-economic issues were under discussion at the extended Cabinet meeting which was held on the day of gunfire.
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