Blogger News Network

The U.S. military in Afghanistan says a road crash that sparked riots in Kabul Monday was caused by brake failure in a heavy military cargo truck that was coming down a hill.

Military spokesman Colonel Tom Collins told reporters the driver was experienced so he applied primary and emergency brakes and avoided hitting pedestrians. He said the truck ended up hitting occupied vehicles at an intersection.

He offered his condolences and said the military will compensate the victims or their families. He also said a full investigation of the incident is still under way.

The crash killed at least five people and sparked the worst riots across Kabul since the fall of the Taleban in 2001. At least 13 people were killed and more than 100 injured in the unrest.

Tuesday, police were patrolling the streets of Kabul which was peaceful after an overnight curfew was lifted.

Afghan President Hamid Karzai appealed for calm in an address Monday night. He described the rioters as "agitators" and said Afghans must stand against the people who looted and destroyed property in Kabul.

Some information for this report provided by AP and AFP.