Smoke rises at the site of the attack outside the provincial police headquarters in Kandahar, capital of Afghanistan's southern Kandahar province, July 18, 2019. At least 12 people were killed and over 90 others injured after a Taliban car bombing and ensuing gun fire rocked provincial police headquarters in Kandahar city, capital of Afghanistan's southern Kandahar province, on Thursday, witnesses said. (Xinhua/Sanaullah Seiam)

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan, July 18 (Xinhua) -- At least 12 people were killed and over 90 others injured after a Taliban car bombing and ensuing gun fire rocked provincial police headquarters in Kandahar city, capital of Afghanistan's southern Kandahar province, on Thursday, witnesses said.

"The blast struck the northern gate of the compound roughly at 4:35 p.m. local time. Following the explosion, gunmen infiltrated into the facility and clashed with police officers guarding the building. Several pedestrians were also killed or injured in the incident," witness Mohammad Hashim told Xinhua.

The blast caused panic among residents and a black smoke was seen rise above the site. Several nearby buildings and cars were damaged in the massive explosion.

Sporadic clashes were still ongoing late Thursday. And the exact number of assailants has so far been unclear.

The known killed included two police officers, eight civilian and two attackers, a security source told Xinhua anonymously, adding more than 90 people were injured.

The number of casualties may rise, the official added.

The Taliban militant group has claimed the attack.

Security situation has been improving in Kandahar, the former stronghold of Taliban, over the last months, as security forces have conducted operations across the province. The militant attacks however are going on.