Situation In Tajikistan's Gorno-Badakhshan Calms Down

Protesters in Tajikistan's restive Gorno-Badakhshan region have left the central square in the regional capital, Khorugh, after civil society activists and authorities agreed on May 25 to investigate last week's deadly shooting followed by violent protests.

Clashes in Khorugh on May 21 left at least three people, including a police officer, dead and at least seven people, including three police officers, injured.

The fatalities occurred during a police offensive against suspected criminals and ensuing clashes between security forces and local residents upset with the police action.

On May 24, at least one person was killed and two injured when the protesters attacked a security forces' building in Khorugh, using a grenade and firearms.

Interior Minister Ramazon Rahim and the presidential adviser on national security, Sherali Hairulloev, were involved in the talks with the protesters.