Afghan suicide bombing leaves many dead

A suicide bomb attack in northern Afghanistan has killed at least 15 people including women and children, officials have told the BBC.

Another 27 were wounded in the attack in Maymana, capital of Faryab province, Provincial Governor Mohammadullah Batash said.

The bomber is believed to have detonated his explosives near the entrance to a busy market.

No group has so far said it carried out the bombing.

However, Taliban insurgents and the al-Qaeda affiliated group the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan are active in the region.

Mr Batash said the attacker had been riding a three-wheel motorcycle when he detonated his explosives.

"It was a local market day. Hundreds of local farmers and villagers bring their produce. All of those killed and injured are civilians," he said.

Witness Sayed Agha, 43, told the BBC: "I was busy buying bread when I heard a huge bang. I saw dead bodies and blood all around me."

The attack comes as Afghans prepare to hold a presidential election on 5 April.