Afghanistan: VBIED targets security outpost in Helmand province September 30

Event

Fatalities have been reported after a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) was detonated at a security outpost in Helmand province on Wednesday, September 30. The indicant occurred in Nahri Saraj district (also known as Grishk district). Initial reports indicated that at least four security force members were killed in the incident and two others wounded; however, other sources have reported higher casualty figures. No group has yet claimed responsibility for the bombing, but local officials attributed the attack to Taliban militants.

Increased security operations are likely in the vicinity of the incident in the coming days and further attacks are likely in the medium 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 the 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. The group are currently engaged in peace negotiations with the Afghan government in Qatar, but attacks have continued across the country since the beginning of the talks on September 12.

Advice

Those in Helmand province are advised to monitor developments in their own particular area of operations through a range of multi-source intelligence advisories and should heed all instructions issued by local authorities or their home governments.

The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.