Afghanistan: At least ten police officers killed following attack in Wardak Oct. 7 /update 1

Event

At least ten police officers, including a district police chief, were reportedly killed following an attack by Taliban fighters on Sayad Abad district (Wardak province) at around 03:00 (local time) on Sunday, October 7. According to reports, approximately 150-200 Taliban fighters participated in the assault. Afghan security forces reportedly drove back the Taliban assault, killing at least 25 fighters. During the fighting, power lines were reportedly cut, leading to power outages in parts of Logar and Paktia provinces. Further attacks by Taliban fighters are possible in the area in the near-term.

Context

Taliban forces launched a major assault on Ghazni, roughly 50 km (31 mi) to the south of Sayad Abad, in August, seizing the city and resulting in the deaths of hundreds of security forces, civilians, and militants.

Advice

The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.