Explosion kills Afghanistan district chief

TALOQAN, Afghanistan, March 21 (UPI) -- A roadside bomb explosion in Afghanistan Thursday killed Abdul Manan Hakimi, the district chief for the Eshkamesh district, authorities said.

Hakimi's two security guards were also killed, Khaama Press reported, and two police offices were injured.

The incident occurred at 7 a.m. while Hakimi was on his way to his office, authorities said.

Although Takhar is among one of the most peaceful regions in Afghanistan, violence by militants has recently increased, Khaama Press said.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack.