JALALABAD (SW): The provincial government in Nangarhar has initiated a drive against illegal possession of firearms in a bid to curb the surging rate of crimes and violence.
Gulab Mangal, provincial governor, told journalists on Saturday a number of armed individuals and groups are using firearms and identity cards belonging to the government officials resulting unrest in districts as well as the provincial capital Jalalabad city. “Unfortunately, people close to the government officials are misusing the weapons and firearms’ licenses which is an illegal act”, he said.
Nangarhar residents have been irked by an evident surge in cases of kidnaping, armed robberies and target-killings. The governor said the provincial Security Council has decided to disarm all individuals possessing firearms without valid license. “We would profoundly pursue this decision by the Security Council, and would also consult with the security officials to ensure their weapons and licenses are not misused”, he said.
The governor added the members of the Afghan Local Police (ALP) serving in districts would not be allowed to bring their arms with them to the provincial capital Jalalabad.
The locals have long been anxious about the presence of unauthorized armed individuals and groups in the province.
ENDS
