Forces ready for election security: Gen. Weesa

MAZAR-I-SHARIF (PAN): At least 238 insurgents have been killed, 118 injured and 70 others arrested during security operations over the past three months in the northern provinces, an official said on Tuesday.

During the period, security forces seized 77 weapons, 500 shells, 513 kilograms of more explosives, 74 anti-tank bombs, 23 hand grenades, 25 magazines and eight bullet-proof vests.

The security personnel also recovered 24 motorbikes and 13 mobile phones, 209th Shaheen Military Corps commander in Mazar-i-Sharif Brig. Gen. Zalmay Weesa told a press conference.

Afghan forces and civilians suffered no casualties during the operations, he said, adding the insurgents could not fight security forces, but disrupted public peace zone by planting roadside bombs and conducting guerrilla attacks.

The security personnel were fully prepared for next year’s presidential elections and would try to create an enabling environment for the people to participate in the democratic process, he concluded.

myn