An internal feud resulted in Maoist militants in Doti killing at least 14 of their own comrades earlier this month. They had a disagreement over an abducted person with one faction demanding his release, and others vehemently opposed to the idea. As the argument intensified, two militants struggled over a hand grenade, which exploded and killed both instantly. Thinking security forces were attacking them, other militants opened fire, killing their own comrades including an area commander and several female rebels.