Deadly Explosion Rocks Kabul Hotel, Casualties Reported
A powerful explosion struck a hotel in central Kabul on Monday, causing multiple casualties. City police and Afghan government officials confirmed the incident occurred in the Shahr-e-Naw area.
Police Confirm Casualties in Fourth District Blast
Kabul police spokesman Khalid Zadran provided initial details about the explosion. He stated the blast happened at a hotel located on Gulfaroshi Street in Shahr-e-Naw. This area represents the fourth district of Kabul city.
"An explosion occurred in a hotel on Gulfaroshi Street in Shahr-e-Naw, the fourth district of Kabul city, causing casualties," Zadran told reporters. The police spokesman did not elaborate on what caused the explosion during his initial statement.
Interior Ministry Reports Both Fatalities and Injuries
Abdul Mateen Qani, who serves as spokesman for Afghanistan's interior ministry, spoke with AFP journalists about the incident. He confirmed the explosion resulted in serious human toll.
"We do have casualties, both wounded and killed," Qani stated clearly. His confirmation came as emergency responders rushed to the scene.
Emergency Response at the Blast Site
An AFP journalist witnessed immediate response efforts at the explosion location. Firefighters worked diligently to clear the affected area while medical personnel prepared to transport victims.
The journalist observed several key elements at the scene:
- Firefighters actively working near the explosion site
- An ambulance standing ready for medical evacuation
- Police officers securing the perimeter around the area
Chinese Nationals Seriously Wounded in Blast
China's state news agency Xinhua reported specific details about foreign nationals affected by the explosion. Citing information from a restaurant employee, Xinhua confirmed two Chinese citizens sustained serious injuries.
The news agency provided additional damage assessment from the scene. According to their report, the explosion resulted in:
- An Afghan security guard killed in the blast
- Severe damage to the restaurant facility
Commercial Area Known for Flower Sellers and Restaurants
The explosion occurred in a busy commercial section of Kabul. The Shahr-e-Naw district typically features numerous businesses and services that attract both locals and visitors.
This particular area is known for several characteristics:
- Flower sellers regularly operate their businesses there
- Multiple restaurants serve customers in the vicinity
- A hospital provides medical services nearby
The combination of commercial activity and essential services makes this district particularly vulnerable when explosions occur. Emergency responders faced the challenge of navigating a populated area while providing critical assistance to victims.
