December 31: Four foresters were brutally attacked and killed in an explosion near Singye village in Sarpang yesterday. The four died on the spot while two others escaped with serious injuries. They are being treated at the Gelephu hospital.

The blast took place near Singey village at around 3:10 pm. The six forestry personals were returning to their camp in Phibsoo from Sarpang after vegetable shopping.

Police say the tractor they were traveling was blown off by an improvised explosive device planted on the road. After the explosion the foresters were shot by the militants.

Police officials say after the explosion the dead bodies were dragged near the tractor and set on fire using the tractor’s tyre.

The incident was informed to the Police by one of the injured forester who escaped with bullet wounds. The other injured who remained hidden in the jungle was later rescued by a search team at around 10 pm.

A news release from the police says the attack could have been the work of the Communist Party of Bhutan based in Nepal. The militants also took away two SLR rifles with 40 rounds and a Motorola hand set carried by the forestry personnel.

MPs pay condolences to victims of the blast

Meanwhile, Members of the National Assembly today expressed condolences to the family members and victims of the bomb blast in Sarpang yesterday. Four foresters were killed on the spot while two others were seriously injured.

The Minister of Works and Human Settlement and Agriculture Minister said following the command of His Majesty the King necessary help have been given to the family members.

The Opposition leader condemned the attack and offered condolences on behalf of the Opposition Party. The members pledged their support to prevent such attacks in the future.

The National Assembly meanwhile, continued discussions on the audit report presented by the Public Accounts Committee.