Afghan president says security restored in capital after Taliban attack that leaves 5 dead

Afghan president says security restored in capital

KABUL — Afghan President Hamid Karzai says security has been restored to Kabul after a Taliban attack targeting government buildings that prompted fierce gunbattles and left five dead.

Officials have said at least five people, including a child, were killed and nearly 40 wounded in Monday’s attack.

Karzai says in a statement that “the enemies of Afghanistan are … trying to spread fear among Kabul citizens.” He ordered security officials to do their best to arrest the perpetrators.

The brazen attack is a clear sign the insurgents plan to escalate the fight as the U.S. and its allies ramp up their own campaign to end the war.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

KABUL (AP) — Afghan officials say at least five people have been killed and 38 wounded in fighting that broke out when Taliban militants launched attacks on government targets in Kabul.

Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid told The Associated Press that 20 armed militants, including some with suicide vests, had entered Kabul to target the presidential palace and other government buildings in central Kabul.

Explosions and the rattle of heavy machine-gun fire rattled the city for hours Monday. The Defense Ministry says the situation has been brought largely under control by midafternoon, although sporadic clashes continue to be reported.

The Ministry of Public Health says those killed include one civilian and four military forces.