What Weapons Did Afghan Counter-Terrorism Police Discover?
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Synopsis
In a significant operation, Afghan counter-narcotic police have uncovered a large cache of weapons in Balkh province, raising concerns about illegal arms proliferation in the region. The discovery highlights ongoing issues related to security and crime as authorities continue their battle against illicit arms trade.
Key Takeaways
- Significant weapon cache discovered in Balkh province.
- Includes various firearms and ammunition.
- Ongoing investigations to track involved individuals.
- Similar seizures reported in other provinces.
- Authorities emphasize community involvement in arms control.
Kabul, Dec 5 (NationPress) Afghan counter-narcotic police have revealed the discovery of substantial amounts of weapons and ammunition in the Balkh province of northern Afghanistan, as stated by the provincial police office on Friday.
The recovered items include four Kalashnikov rifles, four hand grenades, an air rifle, two anti-personnel grenades, a PK gun, a sighting scope, along with hundreds of rounds of bullets and cartridges and other unlawfully stored military gear, the statement noted, according to Xinhua News Agency.
It was not disclosed whether any arrests occurred in relation to this incident. The cache was found during a police operation at a residential property in the Zari district of the province.
On November 23, local officials reported the uncovering of a significant weapons cache in Uruzgan province, where three individuals were taken into custody in connection with this find.
Bilal Uruzgani, the provincial police spokesperson, confirmed that the weapons were concealed in a residential structure, comprising various types of ammunition, hand grenades, rocket shells, bullets, and additional munitions.
Authorities have commenced further investigations to identify others who might be linked to this illicit arms cache.
Earlier, on November 16, Mullah Ezatullah Haqqani, the provincial police spokesman, stated that police in the Helmand province had seized a cache of weapons and ammunition, arresting one suspect during a recent operation.
Haqqani reported that the confiscated items included six Kalashnikov rifles, three hand grenades, a mortar launcher, an M16 assault rifle, a shotgun, as well as hundreds of bullets, cartridges, and other military equipment.
The munitions were discovered in Helmand's Gereshk district, where police also detained an individual believed to be involved. The suspect has been transferred to custody for further interrogation.
On November 9, provincial police spokesperson Haqmal Saad indicated that Afghan police had seized illegal weapons and explosives in the eastern Panjshir province and detained a suspected smuggler.
This haul included three AK-47 assault rifles, a pistol, a pair of binoculars, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and other military gear, which was recovered at a checkpoint.
The individual was arrested while attempting to transport the contraband out of the province, the official added.
Saad urged the public to assist security forces in identifying illegal arms, reiterating that police would not tolerate the illegal possession or movement of weapons in any area of the province.
Point of View
The uncovering of such a large cache of weapons underscores the urgent need for continued vigilance and efforts to combat illegal arms trafficking. Ensuring public safety and maintaining order in Afghanistan remains a top priority as authorities work to dismantle these illicit networks.
NationPress
05/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of weapons were seized by Afghan police?
The Afghan police seized items including Kalashnikov rifles, hand grenades, an air rifle, and various types of ammunition.
Where was the weapons cache discovered?
The weapons cache was discovered in the Balkh province of northern Afghanistan.
Have any arrests been made related to the weapons cache?
The statement did not indicate whether any arrests were made in connection with the weapons found in Balkh province.
What actions are authorities taking following the discovery?
Authorities have initiated further investigations to identify individuals connected to the illicit arms stash.
Is this the first instance of weapons being seized in Afghanistan recently?
No, similar instances of weapons seizures have been reported in other provinces such as Uruzgan and Helmand.
