The United Nations in a statement condemned Tuesday’s suicide attack outside the Supreme Court complex in Kabul, and stressed that those behind the deadly bombing must be held to account.

"We express our condolences to the families of the victims and convey our solidarity to the Government and people of Afghanistan," said a statement issued by his spokesperson.

Officials confirmed 21 people were killed and more than 40 were injured in the suicide bombing, which took place outside the Afghan Supreme Court complex.

"Indiscriminate attacks against civilians, including employees of the judicial institutions, are violations of human rights and international humanitarian law and cannot be justified," said the statement, adding: "Those behind today's bombing and other such despicable acts must face justice."

On Tuesday night, the officials confirmed the death toll following the suicide bombing outside the Supreme Court in Kabul had risen to 21.

Public Health Ministry officials said among the dead were nine women.

In addition, 41 people were wounded. Officials said a number of wounded were in critical condition in the Kabul Emergency Hospital.

The incident took place at about 03:45 when court staff were leaving for home.

Eyewitnesses said the powerful explosion shook nearby buildings and caused substantial damage in the immediate area.

Reports indicated that most of the casualties had been civilians.

No group has claimed responsibility as yet for the incident.

In June 2013 an explosion occurred in the same place - killing 17 people and injuring 39 others.