Strategic Nawa district purged of insurgents: Akbarzada

GHAZNI CITY (Pajhwok): Afghan security forces marched into Nawa district of southern Ghazni province after eight years and purged several areas of militants, acting governor said.

Geographically Nawa district bordering Pakistan. The district is located 150 kilometres southeast of Ghazni City, the provincial capital.

Local officials confirmed militants used Nawa district as a gateway for carrying ammunition to arm militants.

Mosa Khan Akbarzada, the acting governor, told Pajhwok Afghan News security forces completely controlled Gilan and Maqur districts and paved way for access to several other districts.

“Security forces killed 65 militants including 17 foreigners. Four notorious foreign commanders including Tayab, Ilham, Babi and Mohsin are among the slain insurgents,” he added.

The security forces seized huge amount of ammunition, several motor bikes and vehicles during the operation.

Assad Ullah Insafi, provincial police chief, said security forces were well equipped and defused 101 mines so far. He added others areas had been identified where mines were planted and had also destroyed arms depots of the rebels.

Ali Ahmed Mubarez, director of National Directorate of Security (NDS), said security forces would control all areas soon and would establish government writ. “I congratulate local people for the successful operation”, he added.

A local resident, requesting anonymity, confirmed heavy firefight in the area for the last four days and seeing security forces for the first time in the area.

Afghan National Army (ANA), Afghan National Police (ANP), officials of NDS and Afghan Local Police are taking part in the military operation.

Zabih Ullah Mujahid, Taliban spokesman, rejected government claims of controlling Nawa district.

shah/rm

Views: 2