Taliban still exist around Kunduz City: Public reps

KUNDUZ CITY (Pajhwok): The provincial council on Monday voiced concern over a large-scale Taliban’s presence around the capital of northern Kunduz province, but security authorities vowed to completely clear the province of insurgents.  

Taliban insurgents on October 3 briefly took control of some areas around Kunduz City, the provincial capital, before being driven by security forces after a week.

Mohammad Yousuf Ayoubi, the provincial council head, told Pajhwok Afghan News Taliban still existed on the outskirts of Kunduz city, an issue that panicked local residents.

“The current situation in Kunduz is not satisfactory, a lot of issues are there, people are worried about the situation and Kunduz. Clashes between security forces and Taliban often occur at night.”     

Ayoubi asked the government to pay serious heed to the province, otherwise the security situation would be further worsen.

Amrudding Wali, a PC member, confirmed Taliban still existed on the outskirts of the provincial capital, causing panic among people.

“The government’s writ in Kunduz is very weak because there is no security belt around the city to ensure there is safety. The provincial agriculture department is located on the outskirts of Kunduz city where insurgents freely carry out their activities.”

However, Col. Mohammad Masoom Hashimi, deputy provincial police chief, said security forces were currently engaged strengthening security and establishing new check posts in areas cleared of militanats amid ongoing nighttime operations.

“Our operations are underway in Kunduz and heavy casualties have been caused to Taliban and we have a firm decision to completely drive the insurgents away.”

sns/ma

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