The Nobel Peace Prize-winning relief agency Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) suspended operations in Afghanistan today after five of its workers were killed in an ambush claimed by the Taliban.
The assault in the north of the country yesterday, was the deadliest since the radical Islamic militia was ousted in late 2001.
It was carried out by attackers on a motorcycle who shredded a four-wheel-drive painted with the organisation's red logo with assault rifles and grenades.
Two Dutch aid workers, a Norwegian doctor and their Afghan driver and translator were killed.
"For the time being, our activities will be suspended nationwide," said MSF spokeswoman Ms Vicky Hawkins. "In the coming weeks we will analyse this event in-depth, but for the moment our priority is to take care of those most affected by this tragedy."
Last month, the Taliban claimed responsibility for killing three UN election workers, including two British security consultants, in eastern Nuristan province.
AP
