18 Oct 2018 | 09:36 PM UTC
Afghanistan: Suicide bombing attack kills seven in Wardak province Oct. 17
Suicide bombing attack kills seven soldiers in Chaki Wardak district (Wardak province) October 17; similar attacks targeting security forces possible in the near-term
Event
A suicide bombing attack killed seven soldiers and wounded a major general in Chaki Wardak district (Wardak province) on Wednesday, October 17. Similar attacks targeting security forces are to be expected over the coming days ahead of the October 20 parliamentary election.
Context
Taliban militants launched attacks on Afghan National Army (ANA) security checkpoints in Chaki Wardak district on October 16, resulting in several casualties among security forces.
Taliban and Islamic State (IS) fighters launch attacks on security forces in Afghanistan on a near-daily basis. Such assaults are likely intended to undermine the perceived capacity of Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF), and the Afghan government more broadly, to adequately provide security in the wake of the withdrawal of most US-led NATO forces from the country and ahead of parliamentary and district elections.
Advice
Individuals in Wardak province, and throughout Afghanistan, are advised to monitor the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off-limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
