Local officials of southern Helmand province confirmed today that a tribal elder named Abdul Satar was shot dead by unidentified gunmen on Tuesday night.

The incident took place in Lashkargah city, the capital of the province, while Mr. Satar was on his way home, said Omar Zwak, a spokesman of the Provincial Governor. 

The police have started investigating the incident, Zwak said. But no one has yet been taken into custody. 

Responsibility for the attack, which appeared to be targeted, has yet to be claimed. 

Insurgents frequently target tribal elders in the province who have links with the government. Tribal leaders often serve as intermediaries between the militants and government officials.