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8 Afghan security officials suspended over assassination attempt against Karzai |
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Written by THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
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Thursday, 15 May 2008 |
Afghan President Hamid Karzai speaks at the presidential palace in Kabul, Afghanistan on Monday, April 28, 2008. THE ASSOCIATED PRESS/Musadeq Sadeq
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KABUL - Afghanistan's top civilian counterterrorism official has been suspended in connection with last month's attempted assassination of President Hamid Karzai.
Authorities say Abdul Manan Farahi, the Interior Ministry official in charge of counterterrorism, is among security officials who have been relieved of their duties in the April 27 attack in Kabul.
Karzai escaped unhurt but three others, including a legislator, were killed when gunmen opened fire during a military parade in the capital.
The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attempt on Karzai's life. But officials have also blamed al-Qaida-linked militants based in neighbouring Pakistan and have arrested two Afghan government employees for alleged involvement in the plot.
Authorities say the fate of the suspended officials, including possible criminal charges, will be determined after questioning.
However, officials did not say if they were considered suspects or whether they were removed because of perceived negligence.
The attack was at least the fourth attempt to kill Karzai since he came to power six years ago. It highlighted the western-backed president's weak grip on the country and the overall tenuous security situation.
The Taliban, who were toppled from power in a 2001 U.S.-led invasion, are leading an insurgency that is strongest in Afghanistan's south and east but has also managed attacks in the capital.
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Last Updated ( Thursday, 15 May 2008 )
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