Afghanistan - rocket attack

Government compound attacked, killing two

Article published on the 2009-08-10 Latest update 2009-08-10 12:26 TU

An Afghan soldier in Kunar Province
(Photo: Reuters)

Provincial government and police headquarters 50 kilometres south of Kabul came under rocket attack from Taliban armed fighters on Monday, killing one policeman, according to officials in the area. Rockets struck the governor's office and headquarters in Pul-i-Alam, spokesmen told French newswire AFP.

The attackers ware surrounded in two multi-storey buildings from where they were exchanging fire with security forces,according to spokesperson Din Mohammad Darwish.

Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahed claims that six attackers  entered the building and 21 people have been killed.

By evening two attackers were shot dead and one blew himself up, interior ministry spokesperson Zemarai Bashary told French newswire AFP.

The recent upsurge in attacks on government buildings has prompted Afghanistan's electoral authorities to issue a warning on Monday. Voting may need to be suspended if adequate security is not put in place for the 20 August polls.

An official said that Afghan security forces are operating in 35 districts, while nine of these are under Taliban control.

"Our position is that where there is no security, where the election commission can't go, I don't think we would be able to do anything because the elections require a peaceful environment," said Zekria Barakzai, deputy chief electoral officer.