Officials Speak of Anti-Corruption Efforts in Police Ranks

Afghan Ministry of Interior says at least 262 officials and policemen including 15 high-ranking officers from the ministry have been dismissed and prosecuted during one year on charges of corruption and misuse of their duties.

“We have referred about 105 cases to the Attorney General Office,” said Mohammad Wahid Hamidi, the head of anti-corruption and audit office of the Interior Ministry.

According to officials, the anti-corruption efforts in Afghan police ranks have saved about 3.5 billion Afghani in one year.

“With the anti-corruption efforts, we have prevented the embezzlement of 3.5 billion Afghani,” claimed Akramullah, the deputy director of counter-narcotics of the ministry.

These remarks come as there are many reports of corruption among Afghan police including the existence of “ghost” soldiers and selling of government supplied arms to the Taliban militants.

Meanwhile, an official said that Afghan forces have launched a new spring offensive under the name of “Khalid” in 13 insecure provinces.

“Khalid Operation was launched in 13 provinces that experienced heavy attacks by the insurgents last year,” said Najib Danish, acting spokesperson for the Afghan Ministry of Interior.

By Fawad Naseri & Hesamuddin Hesam