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Afghan Military Recruits Clash With Shi'a In Kabul

Kabul, 1 March 2004 (RFE/RL) -- Afghan military recruits today clashed with a religious procession of Shia Muslims observing Ashura ceremonies in Kabul, causing casualties.

Afghan police and witnesses say the casualties came after a grenade was hurled as the two sides brawled. The trouble apparently started after recruits allegedly taunted marchers as they walked past.

Lieutenant Richard Scarth, a spokesman for the international security force in Afghanistan, confirmed the incident, saying one person was believed killed.

Afghan police said 16 people were injured, but said there were no fatalities in the clash.

Copyright (c) 2004. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. www.rferl.org