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1st LD Writethru: Afghan Taliban infighting claims scores of lives: officials

Xinhua, March 11, 2016 Adjust font size:

Taliban infighting in western Herat province has claimed scores of lives over the past couple of days, local officials and sources close to the Taliban said Friday.

The fighting occurred between supporters of Taliban leader Mullah Akhtar Mohammad Mansoor and backers of his opponent Mullah Mohammad Rasoul in Shindand district of the province 640 km west of Kabul.

"The clash erupted in Bakhtabad and Charqala areas of Shindand district a couple of days ago and so far has claimed scores of lives," Mullah Manan Niazi who claims to speak for Mullah Rasoul's group told media.

However, sources close to Mullah Mansoor's camp has yet to make comments.

Security officials in the region have confirmed the clash among Taliban militants, saying government forces will not intervene unless the lives of civilians are in danger.

Locals in talks with media have also confirmed the infighting, saying Mullah Samad, a commander of Mullah Mansoor, attacked the positions of Mullah Nangiali who is loyal to Mullah Rasoul in Zirkoh area of Shindand district four days ago, and so far scores of people from both sides have been killed.

According to the locals, Mullah Samad has been injured after capturing several villages from rival group. Mullah Nangiali has fled the area.

Fighting has happened several times between supporters of Mullah Mansoor and backers of his opponent Mullah Rasoul in parts of the conflict-ridden country since confirmation of the death of Taliban former leader Mullah Mohammad Omar in July last year. Endit