Taliban gunmen and suicide bombers have attacked buildings in the heart of the Afghan capital, Kabul, setting off explosions and sparking gun battles.

Fighting erupted near the Serena Hotel and the presidential palace, although Afghan President Hamid Karzai says security has now been restored.

The Taliban said 20 of its fighters had taken part in the attack on Kabul.

Two civilians and three security personnel have been killed plus 71 others wounded, officials say.

Seven attackers had also been killed, Interior Minister Mohammad Hanif Atmar said.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/8329140.stm

*REPOSTED FROM THE 18TH – THINK MY PROVIDER SCREWED UP – IT HAD VAMOOSED*