Increased Security Measures in Central Kabul Following Deaths of Four Protesters

Following a demonstration that turned violent on Friday, resulting in four deaths, the Afghan government resorted to closing central streets in Kabul and tightening security measures on Saturday, June 3. Hundreds of Kabul residents marched on Friday, June 2, towards the site of a deadly explosion that occurred in the city center on Wednesday, protesting against the Afghan government leaders. Protesters accused the Afghan government of 'incompetence' in ensuring security and called for the resignation of the President and the Chief Executive of the country. However, the demonstration turned into a scene of clashes between police and security forces and protesters after a few hours, ultimately resulting in four deaths. Reports indicate that riot police, fully equipped, fired warning shots to prevent demonstrators from moving towards the presidential palace and used tear gas and water cannons against the protesters. Some reports on Friday suggested that police forces shot at people to prevent them from approaching the building. The protests began after about a thousand people gathered near the site of the bombing that occurred on Wednesday, June 1. This deadly bombing, which took place during busy morning hours, killed at least 90 people and injured over 460, most of whom were civilians. This attack is the deadliest bombing in Kabul since 2001 and the fall of the Taliban regime following the U.S. occupation of Afghanistan. Now, Reuters reports from Kabul that Afghan government officials have closed the central streets of the city on Saturday in an effort to prevent a recurrence of violence and clashes. The news agency cites security officials in Kabul stating that protests and gatherings have been banned due to the 'risk of terrorist attacks' on gatherings. So far, no group has claimed responsibility for the deadly explosion in Kabul on Wednesday, and the Taliban has denied any involvement in the attack. Meanwhile, some reports indicate that the Islamic State group, ISIS, has claimed responsibility for this attack.