A landmine explosion in eastern Afghanistan killed nearly a dozen young girls, Afghan officials confirmed. The explosion occurred Monday in Nangarhar province. Authorities do not believe that the explosives were planted by insurgents. It appears to be a landmine left over from the Soviet occupation.
UNICEF said curiosity prompts children to “pick up strange objects, such as the infamous toy-like 'butterfly' mines that Soviet forces spread by the millions in Afghanistan.”
At least 12 girls were collecting firewood when they came upon the landmine. Ten girls died and two others were wounded. No other details were available.
U.S. commander General John Allen expressed his condolences to the families of the children.
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