Afghanistan: Gunmen attack bank in Gardez, Paktia province, May 20

Event

At least three militants attacked a branch of the Kabul Bank in Gardez, the capital city of Paktia province, on Saturday, May 20. According to local sources, the attack started at approximately 14:25 (local time) with a suicide bomber detonating his device at the main gate, breaching the wall. Another bomber detonated a suicide vest inside the bank compound and a third attacker opened fire with small arms. At least two people have been killed and more than 30 wounded. A security operation is ongoing. Avoid the area.

Context

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack. Militants have targeted branches of the Kabul Bank in the past to attack members of the security forces when they line up to collect their salaries.

The Taliban announced the official start of their yearly spring offensive on Friday, April 2, against the presence of foreign troops in Afghanistan. The announcement states the group will mainly focus on targeting foreign troops, other foreign nationals present in the country, the Afghan military, and intelligence services. The group continues to justify attacks on soft and civilian targets by claiming the victims are linked with foreign intelligence services.

Advice

As always, due to major security concerns, individuals throughout Afghanistan are urged to keep a safe distance from large gatherings, military convoys, government buildings, and crowded urban areas. Many Western governments advise their citizens against travel to the country due to the high threat of kidnapping and terrorism, including frequent attacks against Afghan National Defense and Security Forces, local civilians and politicians, and individuals working in the humanitarian and reconstruction fields. Travel to the country should only be undertaken with proper security protocols in place.