2,000 Jawzjan residents up in arms against Taliban

SHIBERGHAN (Pajhwok): As many as 2,000 civilians on Tuesday declared their support for Afghan security forces and picked up arms against insurgents in northern Jawzjan province.

The 2,000 residents hailing from Moradyan, Khanqa, Mangajak, Faizabad and Aqcha districts attended a gathering here, saying civilians would no more remain silent and would take steps against insurgents.

Mullah to defend and secure people’s lives.

“Taliban severely torture and oppress our people and I myself took a weapon against them to protect and secure my people and preserve a secure environment.”  

Alti, a resident of Mangajak, said Taliban killed two of his innocent brothers who had a broom shop and lived their lives peacefully.

He also joined the armed campaign against insurgents and would fight alongside security forces to secure people’s lives and ensure security. Alti was once attacked by insurgents but he was able to defend himself using a weapon.

Alti said he had a weapon of his own and would not hesitate from fighting against Taliban even in insecure areas of Afghanistan.

Jawzjan Governor Maulvi Lotfullah Azizi expressed gratitude to the people’s decision and said: “A number of intellectuals and analysts instead of thanking and encouraging our brave soldiers who defend the country at the cost of their lives, they weaken their morale.”  

He said some elements spoke on TV screens criticizing the security forces and the 1st vice president, Gen. Abdul Rasheed Dostum’s efforts at ensuring security and fighting terrorism.

Instead of supporting security forces, they spread propagandas and weakened their morale, Azizi said, adding such elements were betraying and committing a major sin.    

Zabit Khan, a resident of Aqcha district, said more than 1,500 residents from five districts were ready to fight against Taliban.

“We are ready to stand against rebels and fight as public uprising force for our people’s security. We sold our belongings and bought weapons for ourselves and we are retaliating against insurgents in defence of our country and without any personal privileges.”

sns/ma