Militants reportedly killed Banu Negar yesterday in Ghor, western Hindu Kush, central Afghanistan. Negar had a baby son and was six months pregnant, her relatives said.

According to Afghan journalist Bilal Sarwary, she was killed at about 10 p.m.

He tweeted: “’Nigara, a police officer, was shot dead in front of her kids and husband last night at 10PM in Ghor province.

“Nigara was six months pregnant, she was shot dead by the Taliban, her family members says.”

The Taliban denied any involvement and said they were investigating the tragedy.

Spokesman Zabiullah Mujaheed told the BBC: “We are aware of the incident and I am confirming that the Taliban have not killed her, our investigation is ongoing.”

Shortly afterwards, images of the incident began spreading on social media amid claims that the insurgency has been carrying out killings in search of former Afghan security forces or Western supporters.

Women in the legal profession, as well as journalists and interpreters, are also viewed as potential targets.

Around 250 women were employed as judges in the country prior to the insurgency’s takeover.

While some have been evacuated from Afghanistan, many remain and fear for their lives.

On August 31, the US military withdrew completely, leaving the Taliban in charge of the country.

Photo by AAMIR QURESHI/AFP via Getty Images