7 killed as Afghans rally against terrorism

At least seven persons were killed as violence broke out in Afghanistan's capital on Friday after hundreds of protestors gathered near the site of this week's car bomb attack to demand the resignation of President Ashraf Ghani's government.

The mass rally was in protest against the government for failing to prevent attacks in Kabul city following Wednesday's deadly truck bombing in Wazir Akbar Khan area -- the diplomatic zone in the heart of the city.

At least 90 people were killed and over 460 injured in the attack.

The demonstration on Friday was aimed at pressuring the government to bring reform in security agencies and take measure to ensure the safety of its citizens.

The protestors marched from several sides of the city towards the district where the blast took place. Several gunshots were fired by police into the sky after protestors tried to move towards the country's presidential palace, Tolo News reported.

Police used water hoses to disperse the crowds. According to Tolo, police were firing above people's heads. Officials said that among the dead, two were shot in the head and two in the chest.

At least eight persons were injured during the protest and hospital officials said most of the wounded had been shot in legs and feet, said the report.

Angry protestors not only stoned security force vehicles but also chanted "Down With (President Ashraf) Ghani", "Down With the CEO (Abdullah Abdullah)" and "Down With The US".

Mohammad Salem, son of the first deputy speaker of the Meshrano Jirga (Upper House of Parliament), was also killed in the shooting.

Later, the Afghan authorities said that the government had put all necessary measures to tackle the increased insecurity and violent attacks.

--IANS

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