The chief of Nepal's armed police force has been shot dead in the capital of Kathmandu by suspected Maoist rebels, according to police.
Police officials said Krishna Mohan Shrestha was killed outright while walking near his house on the outskirts of the city. His wife, Nudup, and bodyguard were also killed.
They said that the three were repeatedly shot by several assailants who managed to escape. No arrests have yet been made.
According to the BBC, if Maoist involvement is indeed confirmed, Shrestha will be the highest-level official deliberately targeted by the insurgents.
Its correspondent added that the use of assassination as a tactic has been rare and will be seen in Nepal as a significant escalation in the conflict. (Albawaba.com)
© 2003 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
