Kandahar is now under the control of its former governor Gul Agha. However there has been tension between rival tribal factions controlling different sectors of the city.

After an abortive attempt to negotiate an amnesty, the Taleban leadership fled and are believed to have scattered throughout the south of the country.

Gul Agha has said he believes some Taleban leaders - including Mullah Mohammed Omar - may be sheltering in mountains north west of the city. Other unconfirmed reports suggest some may have crossed into Pakistan.