Ghani strongly condemns Nangarhar prison attack

KABUL (Pajhwok): President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani on Monday reiterated his call for ceasefire and reduction in violence, saying terrorists could not weaken the people’s resolve for peace and stability.

The attack on the main prison of eastern Nangarhar province came to an end on Monday after the killing of eight assailants.

First a car bombing happened at the entrance to the prison gate shortly after 6:30pm on Sunday before gunmen entered the compound and opened intense fire, followed by heavy fighting.

The governor’s spokesman, AttaullahKhogyani, told Pajhwok Afghan News the attack ended after the killing of eight attackers in the area at around 2:30pm

At least 29 people, including civilians and security forces, were killed and 50 others injured in the attack. He said clearing operations were still underway around the site of the incident.

In a statement, President Ghani termed the terrorist attack during Eid-ul Adah days as against all Islamic and human principles.

President Ashraf Ghani repeated his call for ceasefire and reduction in violence, saying terrorists could not weaken the decision of people for peace and stability.

Meanwhile, the Taliban denied their involvement in the prison attack in Jalalabad but Daesh — the Islamic State militant group, claimed responsibility for the assault.

Pk/ma

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