Serious efforts being made to establish Islamic Army: Mazloom

KUNDUZ CITY (Pajhwok): The deputy defense minister on Tuesday said serious efforts were being made to create an Islamic army and asked security officials to treat people kindly.

Mullah Fazel Mazloom made the remarks during a meeting with government officials, tribal elders and religious scholars in northern Kunduz province. He said the main purpose of his visit to Kunduz was to assess security challenges and find solutions.

Mullah Fazil said a change had taken place in the country and people should co-operate fully with the government in solving problems. He called for the creation of an Islamic army and said security officials should treat the people well.

Mazloom said the Taliban ranks were being purged of unwanted elements and those who abused their position would not be allowed.

Haji Najibullah, deputy director general of intelligence, said the Islamic Emirate had declared a general amnesty for all and that no one had the right to harass people. "Everyone should benefit from the amnesty. We make sure we do our best to ensure security," he said.

At the meeting, Kunduz residents called on government officials to tighten security in the province, saying there was a fear of ISIS operating on the border with Badakhshan.

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