21 killed, 50 injured in bombings in S. Afghanistan

At least 21 people were killed and 50 others injured in four suicide bombings that rocked Taliban birthplace Kandahar in south Afghanistan Saturday evening, a local official said.

"Hospital in Kandahar city have received 21 dead bodies including police and civilians and 50 more police and ordinary citizens were injured in the blasts," director of health department in Kandahar city Abdul Qayum Pukhla told Xinhua.

A police officer who declined to be identified told Xinhua that four suicide bombers riding two motor cycles and two bicycles targeted Kandahar prison, police department, a guest house in Al- Jadid market and a mosque at 08:15 p.m. local time causing the casualties.

He also said that all the four bombers were killed in the multiple attacks.

He blamed Taliban militants for the serial attacks, adding the insurgents by carrying out subversive activities want to disrupt peace and security in the province.

Taliban outfit has yet to make any comment.

However, locals said casualties could be higher than reported.

The multiple attacks occurred amid security forces preparation to launch a major offensive against Taliban militants in Kandahar.

Commander of NATO-led troops in Afghanistan General Stanly McChrystal said days ago that Taliban hideouts would be attacked in Kandahar soon to ensure lasting peace there.

Source:Xinhua