Bomb explosions ahead of presidential inauguration in Afghanistan

Kabul: Security officials in Afghanistan say militants have carried out two attacks just ahead of the country's presidential inauguration.

In the eastern province of Paktia, Capt. Mohammed Hekhlas said that a car bomb exploded Monday near a government compound as gunmen attacked, sparking a gun battle that killed seven Taliban militants. Another police official, who gave his name as Azimullah, said four police and two civilians also were killed.

In Kabul, where the city is readying for the presidential inauguration, a roadside bomb exploded on the airport road. Officials said no one was hurt or killed.

The road links the airport with the presidential palace, where Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai will be sworn in as president later Monday, capping an election marred by fraud allegations and resolved by a unity government pledge.