28 Dec 2019 | 09:19 AM UTC
Afghanistan: Taliban militants kill ten Afghan soldiers in Helmand province December 27-28
Taliban militants attack on military base leaves ten Afghan soldiers dead in Sangin district (Helmand province) December 27-28; further attacks possible in the near term
Event
At least ten Afghan soldiers were killed in an attack on a military base located in Sangin district (Helmand province) in the night (local time) between Friday, December 27, and Saturday, december 28. The Taliban have claimed responsibility for the attack.
Similar attacks are possible in the near term.
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 Helmand province 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.
