Militants, police battle in Afghan capital
20:23, 18 January 2010
KABUL. January 18. KAZINFORM. Taliban militants launched a series of attacks Monday in the heart of Afghan capital, prompting fierce gunbattles after a suicide bomber blew himself up near the presidential palace. Smoke rose over the city and more explosions rocked the city as Afghan troops fought off the attackers; Kazinform refers to China Daily.
It was the latest attack showing the insurgents' ability to penetrate the heavily secured city -- even near the presidential palace and government ministries. Militants have become increasingly brazen in challenging Afghan and international forces as the US and NATO allies begin sending 37,000 more troops to join the fight.
The attackers also targeted the Defense Ministry, the Justice Ministry and the luxury Serena Hotel, which is frequented by Westerners.
Police sealed off a large area in the center of the city as the clash of machine-gun fire echoed through the mountain-rimmed city; Kazinform cites China Daily. See www.chinadaily.com.cn for full version.