A suicide bombing outside a bank in Kandahar City, Afghanistan, on Thursday killed at least 21 people and injured others. However, as per doctors at the regional hospital, local police reported three fatalities and 12 injuries.
The explosion predominantly affected civilians who were assembling at the bank to withdraw money, per a statement from Kandahar police. A spokesperson detailed that the blast resulted in civilian casualties, with many gathering at the location to receive their salaries.
According to the BBC report, Mirwais Hospital, the largest in the region, received 21 deceased and approximately 50 injured individuals.
Kandahar, the city where the Taliban’s Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada resides, witnessed the Taliban securing the area post-explosion, restricting media access. Nonetheless, an AFP journalist observed the aftermath, including the possible sight of casualties being transferred to ambulances.
The site showed signs of the tragedy, strewn with blood, clothing fragments, and footwear, as firefighters and security teams engaged in cleanup efforts. Hospital authorities, under instructions, remained silent on the incident.
Since the Taliban’s ascent to power in August 2021, which marked the end of their insurgency and the displacement of the US-supported administration, Afghanistan has seen a reduction in bomb attacks and suicide missions. Despite this decrease, threats persist from various armed factions, including Daesh’s regional contingent.
The onset of Ramadan on March 11 has been marred by several explosions across Afghanistan, with Taliban officials confirming a few incidents.
