Over 70 Nangarhar officials detained over negligence

JALALABAD (Pajhwok): More than 70 security officials have been arrested over negligence in duty and other issues in eastern Nangarhar province, Governor Hayatullah Hayat said Tuesday.

Talking exclusively to Pajhwok Afghan News, Hayat said the arrests were part of his pledge to improve security in the province after taking over as the governor two months back.

On the day one of taking charge as governor, Hayat promised to utilize all resources and even remove officials for improvement in security situation of the province.

He said he took various steps and utilized different options for improvement in security situation in Nangarhar.

About the fall of two security check-post s in Momand Dara and Ghanikhel districts, the governor said two security officials had been arrested and being investigated in connection with the incidents.

After complaints received against officials in Achin district, one of them was arrested and was being investigated. The residents had been asked to register their complaints with the government against security officials.

The governor said more than 70 security officials had been arrested over negligence and other issues.

On the other hand, Provincial Council (PC) members and experts criticized the governor’s steps for security of Nangarhar.

They said if removing officials was a solution, then the governor and the police chief should be arrested and investigated.

Rohullah Lalpur, a political affairs expert, believed special strategies, planning, appointment of qualified personnel were needed to improve security besides creating security belts.

He stressed the need for improved coordination and communication between the governor, security institutions, civil society activists and tribal elders to improve the security situation.

Over the past two months, around 41 security officials have either been removed or transferred.

nh/ma