Kandahar, located in the heartland of Taliban-controlled territories, holds significant importance as a stronghold for Afghanistan’s ruling authorities.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attack so far. While several explosions have been reported across the country since the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan on March 11, only a few have been officially acknowledged by Taliban officials.
Although Kabul is Afghanistan’s capital, Kandahar city carries special significance as the residence of Supreme Leader Hibatullah Akhundzada. Kandahar has been a longstanding stronghold of the Taliban movement, highlighting its crucial role in the country’s political and strategic landscape.
“In a preliminary report, a suicide attack occurred resulting in the deaths of three individuals and injuring 12 others,” stated Inamullah Samangani, director of information and culture of Kandahar province.
The explosion occurred at approximately 8:00 am (0330 GMT) and was aimed at a gathering of individuals outside the New Kabul Bank branch in central Kandahar city.
“In that area, our fellow citizens often assemble to receive their salaries,” stated Samangani to the media, confirming that the casualties were civilians.
Taliban officials had cordoned off the bank’s vicinity, preventing journalists from approaching the scene. Despite this, an AFP reporter observed what seemed to be unconscious or deceased individuals being loaded onto ambulances following the explosion.
Emergency responders and security personnel were seen clearing the area, with traces of blood, torn clothes, and shoes scattered on the ground.
When queried, hospitals declined to provide information, citing instructions not to engage with the media.
Samangani reassured that the situation was managed at a local hospital where the injured were taken, refuting claims on social media about an urgent need for blood donations. “There is no such urgency, and the injured individuals are in stable condition with minor injuries,” he conveyed to journalists.
Following the Taliban’s assumption of power in August 2021, there has been a notable decrease in bomb blasts and suicide attacks, reflecting a reduction in the insurgency. However, various armed groups, including the regional branch of the Islamic State, continue to pose a threat.
