UPDATE - Afghanistan: 10 die when gunmen storm public office

NEW HEADLINE, DECK; UPDATED DEATH TOLL, CLASHES END, UN LAUNCHES PROBE

By Shadi Khan Saif

KABUL, Afghanistan (AA) - Ten people died and some 30 were injured when a public office in eastern Afghanistan came under armed attack on Sunday, officials said.

Gunmen entered the Finance Directorate in Jalalabad, capital of the Nangarhar province, bordering Pakistan, leading to a three-hour clash, said Attaullah Khogyani, spokesman for the provincial governor.

The casualties include both civilians and directorate staff.

The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has launched an investigation into the incident.

“UNAMA looking into attack at Finance Ministry offices in Jalalabad that initial reports indicate have led to many civilian casualties. International humanitarian law prohibits targeting civilians at any time, under any circumstance,” it said in a statement.

There has been no immediate claim of responsibility.

Bordering Pakistan’s restive tribal belt, Nangarhar has significant numbers of pro-Daesh and Taliban militants in various parts of the province.