Ex-TV presenter killed in Kabul

By Andrew North
BBC News, Kabul

Police in the Afghan capital, Kabul, say a female TV presenter, who used to work for a popular youth music show, has been shot dead in the city.

In March, Shaima Rezayee lost her job on the programme, Hop, which some have likened to the US music channel, MTV, after it was criticised by clerics.

Police say there is a suspicion her killing is linked to her presenting.

News of Ms Rezayee's shooting at her home spread quickly around Kabul and has shocked her many young fans.

QUICK GUIDE

Afghanistan

The daily music show she used to present was broadcast on Tolo TV, a private television channel which has won a big following in the city, with its more Western style.

But the music programme also attracted the attention of some conservative clerics who said it was corrupting Afghan youth.

Ms Rezayee was singled out and, under pressure, Tolo TV dismissed her.

Police say they do not yet know of any motive for her shooting, but suspect a link to the Tolo TV role.