10 dead in attack on IEC office in Kabul

KABUL) in Kabul came under attack.

Two policemen, as many civilians and a provincial council runner were among the fatalities, Interior Ministry spokesman Siddique Siddiqui told reporters after a fierce between the attackers and security personnel.

The Afghan National Army Recruitment Headquarters, presidential runner Dr. Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai’s residence and the Rural Development Ministry are located in the area.

After two heavy explosions at 11.30am, the attackers forced their way into the IEC office in the sixth police district of the central capital.

Siddiqui said two of the militants blew themselves up at the entrance, enabling three others to enter the building. The attackers were killed in the ensuing clash that lasted several hours.

He added two policemen, two civilians and one provincial council candidate also lost their lives in the incident. Without naming the candidate, he said four policemen and as many civilians were wounded.

Up to 70 staffers and provincial council candidates, who were present at the IEC office at the time of the assault, were rescued by security forces, the spokesman said.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility, but Taliban have vowed a string of attacks to disrupt the April 5 vote, asking the fighters to target polling staff, voters and security forces.

Eyewitness Mohammad Tariq said the site was surrounded by security personnel after the blast. He also saw ambulances but had no idea about casualties.

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