KABUL - The Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Afghanistan, Staffan de Mistura, has condemned the attacks on Government buildings in Zaranj, the capital of Nimroz, which occurred yesterday, 5 May.

Reports indicated that at least three police officers and a Provincial Council member, Ms Gul Makai Wakili, were killed and that four civilians and seven police officers were injured in the attack, which was repelled by Afghan National Police.

"These attacks were a despicable display of violence," the Special Representative said.

"Ms Gul Makai Wakili, who was also a poet, was committed to working for women's rights in Zaranj, respected by her constituents and had a nationwide vision for the future of Afghanistan. The thoughts of the entire United Nations family in Afghanistan go out to her family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time – and also to those of the police officers killed or injured in the attack," Mr de Mistura added.