At Least 4 Wounded in British Council Bombing

(Posted on 19/08/11)

It's believed at least two suicide bombers have attacked the British Council in Kabul. While the details are still sketchy as the story unfolds, it's believed there are at least four people wounded. The first bomber drove an explosives-paced vehicle through the main security device and then detonated the device as a second bomber wore a vest with explosives and tried to enter the council. He detonated his bomb, as well. The Taliban has claimed responsibility.

It's also being reported that all government buildings are closed with an "unparalleled" number of Afghan forces on high alert.

Update:

It's now being reported there were four blasts with "heavy gunfire" that continues inside the compound. It's also being reported that three have been killed, six injured and confidence that there will be other deaths.

Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Taliban who was contacted by an AFP reporter, said the attack was plotted to occur on the public holiday that memorializes Afghanistan's independence from Britain in 1919. "Today is our independence day from Britain. They recognized our independence 92 years ago and today's attack was marking that day", said Mujahid.

In the last several minutes, Kabul police officer Farooq Asas reports two Afghan law enforcement members and a municipal were have been killed. He also says the explosions shattered glass in buildings nearly a mile away from the site. Smoke can be seen rising from the building, even as gunfire continues.

Update:

It's now being reported by Reuters that at least 1 assailant is still inside the British Council building.

We'll update this post as news comes available.