US tourists killed in targeted attack in Tajikistan
Two US tourists cycling through the Central Asian nation of Tajikistan have been killed in an apparent hit and run attack, which could be terror-related.
A car plowed into a group of seven foreign cyclists killing four of them.
Two US nationals were confirmed dead along with one Swiss and a Dutch national.
Interior minister Ramazon Rakhimzoda said one of the cyclists who survived was then attacked with a knife.
He said the suspects were also carrying guns.
That has led to fears it was a terror attack, although other motives have not been ruled out.
It was the first attack of its kind against Westerners in Tajikistan.
"We strongly condemn the cruelty of the attackers and recognize that they in no way represent the kindness and hospitality of the Tajik people," the U.S. Embassy in Tajikistan said.
The attack took place about 43 miles from the capital Dushanbe.
The interior ministry says four suspects have been detained and a further two were shot dead by security forces.
The government says banned opposition party the Islamic Renaissance Party of Tajikistan was behind the attack.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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