Afghanistan: Suspected BBIED explosion in Parwan September 17

Event

A suspected Body-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (BBIED) detonated in Parwan at approximately 11:50 (local time) on Tuesday, September 17. The explosion occurred at the entrance of a compound in which a political rally was being held by President Ashraf Ghani's campaign team. The president who attended the rally is reportedly safe and unharmed. Reports indicate that at least 24 people were killed and more than 30 others were injured. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack, although Taliban militants are highly suspected. Details are emerging.

Context

Taliban militants launch attacks on government personnel, security forces, and civilians in Afghanistan on a near-daily basis. Such assaults are, in part, 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.

Advice

Individuals in the area are advised to monitor the situation, avoid the affected area, liaise with their security partner, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments. The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex.

Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.