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                     Suicide Blast Kills 89 in Afghanistan

   by VOA News

   Afghan authorities say a suicide blast has killed at least 89 people in
   eastern Afghanistan.

   Defense Ministry spokesman General Mohammad Zahir Azimi says the bomber
   detonated his explosives-laden vehicle Tuesday near a crowded market in
   the Urgun district of Paktika province. Azimi said more than 42 others
   have been wounded in the attack.

   Authorities say the bomber set off the blast while being pursued by
   police.

   Several shops were destroyed in the massive explosion, with people
   trapped under the rubble.

   There are no immediate claims of responsibility, but the Taliban issued
   a statement denying involvement in the attack.

   Paktika province borders the restive tribal region of Pakistan, where
   the Pakistani military is conducting an offensive against Pakistani
   Taliban and other al-Qaida-linked militants.

   Hours earlier in Kabul Tuesday, officials say at least two people were
   killed when a roadside bomb hit a van carrying those who worked for
   presidential palace's media office. Five others were wounded in the
   blast. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack.

   Security remains a major concern in Afghanistan. The United States is
   scheduled to withdraw most of its forces by the end of the year.
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References

   1. http://www.voanews.com/content/afghan-violence-kills-at-least-40/1957672.html