Kabul: Hundreds of foreigners are leaving
Afghanistan ahead of Thursday`s election amid fears of
insurgent attacks, as those staying behind are being warned to
spend the week in their homes or office compounds.
Insurgents waging a war against the government have
threatened to attack polling stations on Thursday, when
Afghans are set to choose a president for only the second time
in their country`s history.
One international security firm has told foreign clients
to have body armour and passports with them at all times as
attacks were expected.
From tomorrow to Sunday, four days after the poll, "only
essential movement is advised," the firm said in an advisory.
"It is expected that AGE ("anti-government elements,"
including Taliban) will attempt to disrupt the election
process before, after and on" August 20, it said.
"AGE actions can range from intimidation in the form of
night letters to suicide (car bomb) attacks," it said.
The warning comes as many foreigners have left
Afghanistan because of security fears, according to sources at
embassies, international aid agencies and non-governmental
organisations.
In contrast, the US embassy was operating as normal with
450 American staff, said spokesman Kirk Wolcott.
Bureau Report
