LASHKARGAH, Afghanistan -- At least 11 civilians were killed when a roadside bomb ripped through their vehicle in the restive southern Afghan province of Helmand, officials told AFP Saturday (April 15).
The blast occurred April 14 when the passengers were travelling from remote Nawa District to the provincial capital, Lashkargah, government spokesman Omar Zwak told AFP.
"The blast was powerful, and all those on board the van were killed," Zwak said, adding that officials were trying to determine whether any women or children were among the victims.
Helmand police chief Aqa Noor Kentoz blamed the Taliban for the blast, saying the road had been mined to target Afghan security forces who frequently use it.
