Taliban claim responsibility for firing rockets to disrupt Peace Jirga in Kabul

Taliban militants fighting the Afghan government and NATO-led troops in Afghanistan claimed firing rockets and sending suicide bombers to disrupt Peace Jirga opened in the capital city Kabul Wednesday.

In talks with media via telephone from unknown location, Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed that the outfit had sent four suicide bombers to sabotage the peace jirga.

He also said that four militants equipped with suicide vests, rocket propelled grenades and assault rifles have occupied a building and attempting to disrupt the peace jirga.

Mujahid also claimed that resistance is continuing.

Two of the rockets, according to an official who declined to be identified, slammed into a garden close to the venue of peace jirga causing no loss of life.

Sporadic firing is still heard in Afshar area 1.5 km away from Jirga avenue.

About 1,600 people including tribal chieftains, parliamentarians, social and political figures as well as government officials gathered under a giant tent to discuss the ways and means on how to enhance the government-initiated reconciliation process with Taliban militants and ensure lasting peace in the country.

Source: Xinhua