Helmand’s Baba Jee area changes hand

LASHKARGAH (PAN): The security responsibility for the Baba Jee area in southern Helmand province was on Saturday handed over to Afghan security forces.

Although the security control of Lashkargah, the provincial capital, was transferred to Afghan lead in July, the Baba Jee area, situated in eighth police district of the city, remained controlled by foreign troops due to security reasons.

The security situation in the area had improved as result of people’s coordination with the government, deputy police chief, Col. Mohammadzai, said.

Afghan security forces are ready to keep security for residents of the area, he said.

He said earlier Afghan forces had to face accommodation problems which were resolved with the completion of the first security transition process in Lashkargah.

ISAF commander based in Lashkargah, Gen. Lan Mortimer said they would continue to support their Afghan counterparts for a long time ahead.

“Currently, we see no problem in the area because the Taliban had fled, schools are reopened, roads constructed and the people have trust in the government,” he said.

Resident Mohammad Kabir said the execution of development projects such as roads and others convinced people to trust the government.

“If the Afghan government and its foreign allies continue to develop the area, we will support the government and will encourage our youth into joining security forces,” he said.

Babaji, situated 15 kilomtres from the capital city, has been the scene of fierce gun-battles between the Taliban fighters and Afghan police over the past five years.

frm/ma

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