MAZAR-I-SHARIF (Pajhwok): The presence of unauthorised militiamen in clearing operations in northern Balkh province has sparked concerns among residents.
Civil society activists believe unauthorised armed men were behind growing thefts and other illegal activities. They want the role of uprising members curtailed.
Common people complain also the illegal gunmen search their homes and bother them without any reason. This state of affairs is unacceptable to the common people, they say
On the other hand, security officials say they do not need support from local uprising militias but consider them volunteers provided by the people.
Political experts believe the pattern of fighting has changed in the north, saying that distinction between friends and foes has become a difficult challenge.
Meanwhile, Qadir Misbah, head of the Khat Research Centre, slammed the illegal armed men the main source of insecurity, robberies and chaos in society.
Recently, a clearing operation was conducted in the Chamtal district of the province, where uprising members, jihadi commanders, lawmakers and provincial council members took part.
After the offensive ended, residents of the locality voiced pleasure with the behavior of the security forces but registered complains against the unauthorised militiamen.
Nasratullah Jamshedi, spokesman for the 209th Shaheen Military Corps, admitted unauthorised gunmen (uprising members) took part in the clearing offensive.
He, however, said the decision to allow the armed men was taken by the military council of every province.
Jamshed said there was no need for any group barring the Afghan National Army (ANA), National Directorate of Security (NDS) and police to take part in operations.
Munir Farhad, the governor’s spokesman, said the local security personnel were part of the forces tasked with conducting operation.
Some young men introduced to the government desire to voluntarily fight against terrorism. He said the locals referred by tribal elders, prayer leaders and heads of local councils were called in case of need.
Munir felt the army alone could not fight against the insurgents. However, the volunteers were not allowed to bother people and do illegal things during operations.
If people register complaints against the uprising members, the perpetrators would be punished under the law.
Military suggest illegal armed militias should be merged into formal security institutions if their role is needed during clearing operations.
nh/mud
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