The severe risk of working in Afghanistan was highlighted when Taliban insurgents attacked a road construction firm in Paktia Province. During the five hour shoot-out between the Taliban and security personnel for the construction firm, a number of the company's employees were killed. Estimates suggest that several of the Taliban attackers were also killed. The numbers have not been confirmed. Afghanistan is currently seeing investment in its road connections, with the 2332 World Bank having provided financing in a bid to boost transport and help rebuild the country's shattered economy. However these are relatively easy targets for insurgents. The Taliban have attacked several projects that have been put forward by the Afghan Government in a bid to undermine the administration. Foreign road construction workers have been a particular target, with several having been abducted from camps.
