Turkey condemns 'terrorist attack' in Afghanistan

By Faruk Zorlu

ANKARA (AA) – Turkey on Monday condemned the "terrorist attack" in southern Afghanistan.

"We strongly condemn today’s heinous terrorist attack which targeted a bazaar in Afghanistan’s Helmand province, resulting in the loss of many civilian lives and leaving several injured," the Foreign Ministry said in a written statement.

At least 23 civilians were killed in a rocket attack on a marketplace in Sangin, southern Helmand, followed by the car bomb in Sangin’s Zol Bazar area.

The statement added: "We are concerned about the recent increase in the level of violence in Afghanistan."

A statement from the provincial governor carried by the website said another 15 civilians were wounded in explosions.

Turkey also wished "Allah’s mercy upon those who lost their lives, wish for a swift recovery to the injured and convey our condolences to the friendly and brotherly people of Afghanistan."

No one has yet claimed responsibility for the deadly attack.