Large earthquake kills three in Tajikistan

An earthquake measuring 5

An earthquake measuring 5.5 on the Richter scale killed at least three children and left more than a thousand people without shelter in the south of Tajikistan today.

The earthquake hit yesterday evening. At least 19 people were injured and some were in a serious condition.

The quake almost completely destroyed three villages. About 500 houses were destroyed and stunned villagers were left to huddle in the open overnight.

There was a shortage of clean water and medicine.

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The Emergencies Ministry said the neighbouring Panj district was also affected. Several weaker tremors were felt overnight.