The death of two media workers following the explosion of Tabian center in Balkh
The death of two media workers following the explosion of Tabian center in Balkh
3/21/2023
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: 21 March 2023
Kabul, Afghanistan
A tragedy unfolded during a press award ceremony in northern Afghanistan as a bomb detonated, resulting in a devastating loss of life and injuries among attendees, including journalists and innocent bystanders.
The incident occurred at the Tabian Farhang center in Mazar-e Sharif, Balkh province, disrupting an event organized by the Afghan Voice Agency to recognize journalistic excellence. As journalists congregated for the ceremony, a bomb ripped through the venue, claiming the life of at least one guard and injuring eight individuals, including five journalists and three children, according to Mohammed Asif Waziri, Balkh police spokesman.
The casualties are expected to rise, with Sayed Shabir Mahmoodi, the foreign relations director of the Afghan Voice Agency in Balkh province, indicating an unofficial death toll higher than initially reported. Mahmoodi highlighted the local hospital's grim estimate, stating that three people were killed, and over 40 others sustained injuries in the tragic explosion.
This distressing incident marks a harrowing escalation in the risks faced by Afghan journalists. Despite the Taliban's assumption of control in 2021 following the US forces' withdrawal, this bombing represents the first catastrophic attack on journalists, further exacerbating the already perilous media landscape.
No group has yet claimed responsibility for this heinous act of violence, occurring just two days after the assassination of Balkh governor Mohammed Dawood Muzamil. The regional affiliate of Daesh, known as Islamic State Khorasan Province (Daesh-K), claimed responsibility for Muzamil's assassination, further signaling the persistent threat of violence and instability in the region.
This tragic event underscores the urgent need for heightened safety measures to protect journalists and civilians alike. The Afghanistan Journalists’ Union and concerned authorities urge immediate action to safeguard the lives and invaluable contributions of media professionals, ensuring a safer environment for their vital work