'Four die' in attack on Afghan governor compound

KANDAHAR: Two bodyguards and two suicide attackers were killed in a gun battle inside the governor's compound in Afghanistan's southern Kandahar province Saturday, an official said.

The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack, saying their main target was the provincial Governor Tooryalai Weesa.

The insurgents somehow made it through the tight security at the compound with small pistols hidden in their sandals, Weesa said, and a gun fight ensued with guards that lasted for about 30 minutes.

"After killing two bodyguards, the attackers seized their rifles and opened fire on other bodyguards, injuring one," the governor said, confirming that he was not hurt in the incident.

The attackers were eventually killed, Kandahar government spokesman Zalmay Ayobi said. Security forces also found a vehicle laden with explosives abandoned outside the compound. (AFP)