Incidents During the Fortification
Throughout the ten days of constructing the earthwork fortifications, several incidents occurred, highlighting the tension and resistance against authority. Initially, when two tax-collectors approached the area, they were met with demands to surrender their weapons. Upon refusal, they were fired upon and killed. These tax-collectors, although not official government officers, represented the despised tax farmer, contributing to the animosity of the villagers due to their exploitative practices.
Subsequent Confrontations
Shortly after the altercation with the tax-collectors, seven more Turks approached the village and were promptly ordered to surrender. They complied, and the group, comprising two zaptiehs, two tax-collectors, one clerk, and two Pomaks (Mohammedan Bulgarians), were held in a Bulgarian house. Despite being detained, they were treated well, except for one zaptieh who was deemed to have committed acts of cruelty and was consequently sentenced to death and executed Bulgaria Tours.
Capture of a Carriage
A few days later, a closed carriage approached the fortifications along the road and was commanded to surrender. Ignoring the demand, the occupants attempted to flee and were met with gunfire. The carriage was seized, revealing two men and three women inside. Tragically, two men and one woman were killed in the exchange of fire. Another woman, in a desperate attempt to defend herself, grabbed a sabre and struck at one of the insurgents, resulting in her death. The surviving woman was captured but treated well until the arrival of Turkish forces, upon which she was released.
Limited Casualties Caused by Insurgents
According to available information, these incidents resulted in the deaths of only two women at the hands of the insurgents. However, one of these deaths was accidental, highlighting the chaotic nature of the confrontations. Contrary to claims by Turkish authorities in Philippopolis, who reported a higher death toll of twelve, concrete evidence supporting these claims is lacking, leading to skepticism from observers like Mr. Schuyler.
The events surrounding the fortification efforts were marked by confrontations and violence, reflecting the simmering tensions between the villagers and representatives of authority. While resistance was evident, casualties were limited, with most incidents arising from clashes during attempts to disarm or apprehend individuals. Skepticism regarding official casualty figures underscores the need for further investigation and verification of claims made by both sides involved in the conflict.
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