15 Jul 2019 | 05:51 PM UTC
Afghanistan: Landmine explosion kills at least 11 people in Kandahar province July 15
Landmine explosion in Khakrez district (Kandahar province) kills at least 11 people and wounds dozens of others traveling from Sufi shrine July 15; no group immediately claims responsibility for blast
Event
A landmine exploded in Khakrez district (Kandahar province) on Monday, July 15, killing at least 11 people and wounding dozens of others who were returning from a pilgrimage to the shrine of the tomb of Sufi Shah Agha. While no group immediately claimed responsibility for the blast, Taliban fighters are known to use roadside bombs against Afghan security forces.
Similar attacks are possible in Kandahar province and elsewhere in Afghanistan over the near term.
Context
Taliban and Islamic State (IS) 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 Kandahar province are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid the affected area, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities or their home governments.
The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
