Kabul: Up to 34 people have been confirmed dead and 68 injured persons have been taken to hospitals after a powerful blast rocked the Afghan capital of Kabul on Monday, local broadcaster network the Tolo television reported.
However, an eyewitness on the condition of anonymity told Xinhua that the militants had entered an under-construction building and were exchanging fire with the security forces who reached the area to control the situation.
According to the eyewitness, the militants first detonated their explosive-laden car and then began firing around, which is continuing. The area is close to a branch of the logistic department of the defence ministry, sports stadium, defence ministry main building, a branch of information and culture ministry and residential houses. Security forces have cordoned off the area and do not allow journalists to get access to the site of the incident. Police have yet to make comment on the situation.
Pakistan has strongly condemned the terrorist attack in Kabul on Monday morning that reportedly resulted in several casualties. In a statement, Foreign Office Spokesperson Dr Muhammad Faisal said Pakistan condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. He said, "We offer our sympathies and condolences to the bereaved families."
The spokesperson said such attacks are detrimental to the cause of peace, security and stability in Afghanistan.