Kabul, May 29 (DPA) A US military convoy collided with several civilian vehicles Monday in this Afghan capital, killing and injuring several passengers, and resulting in riots that have left at least 20 dead, local media reported.
Shops in Kabul closed down and public transport was off the roads.
Clouds of smoke were seen over the city. The rioters set two police vehicles on fire at the 17th district station, reported Pajhwok News Agency.
A civilian, whose car was damaged in the accident, said passengers and others at the scene hurled stones at the 30-vehicle convoy of coalition troops and shouted 'Death to America.' The US military allegedly fired shots in the air to disperse the crowd.
Seven people were reportedly killed when the military vehicles collided with the civilian vehicles, but there was no confirmation of deaths by Afghan officials or the coalition forces.
'Clearly a tragedy has happened. It's crucial that there is calm,' UN spokesman Adrian Edward said.
© 2006 DPA |