Suicide bomber kills at least 32 protesters in Afghanistan

Sept. 11 (UPI) -- A suicide bomber killed at least 32 people who were protesting a police commander accused of corruption Tuesday in eastern Afghanistan.

The death toll could be higher and the number of injured is estimated to be more than 100.

"All people killed were civilians in the attack," Ataullah Khogyani, the governor's spokesman, told Al Jazeera.

The protesters had gathered to denounce Bilal Pacha, a police commander in the Nangarhar province whom they suspect of murder, robberies and maintaining a private prison, The New York Times reported.

Khogyani said the suicide bomber detonated his vest as he approached a tent where protesters gathered.

It's not yet clear who is responsible for the attack. The Taliban denied involvement.

The bombing was one of several throughout the day.

Hours earlier, bombs exploded in three schools, resulting in the death of at least one child.

The bombs were hidden inside the schools as part of the planned attack, police said.

The Islamic State, which has vowed to attack educational institutions, claimed responsibility for the school bombings.