Afghan blast kills 20 civilians

Twenty civilians have been killed in an explosion in Kandahar, the largest city in southern Afghanistan, an official said today.

Javid Faisal, a spokesman for Kandahar province, said at least 22 others were injured in the blast, which happened in a market area several miles from Kandahar Air Field.

The massive military installation is used by the US-led coalition.

Mr Faisal said the explosives were placed in a vehicle in an area where shopkeepers sell logistical supplies for the military base.