Heavy security in Kabul for canceled celebration

[Coventina]

Source: Associated Press

KABUL (AP) — Thousands of police patrolled Afghanistan's capital Tuesday, a national holiday meant to celebrate the victory of guerrilla fighters over the Soviet-backed Communist regime that controlled the country until 1992.

Afghan officials canceled all public events this year, following a high-profile Taliban attack on last year's parade, which was attended by President Hamid Karzai.

That attack killed three people, including a lawmaker only 30 yards (meters) from Karzai. Hundreds of people, including army and police, fled in chaos as shots rang out. The president was hustled away, surrounded by bodyguards.

Officials flirted with the idea of holding a public celebration this year, but ultimately canceled any public observance, while Karzai said money intended for the parade would instead be given to victims of a recent earthquake and flood. Instead, police in body armor and wielding heavy weapons have been stationed around the capital to deter a repeat attack.



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