Kabul’s Taliban authorities alleged on Wednesday that dozens of Islamic State group militants from Pakistan have been killed or captured in Afghanistan in the past year.
The neighbouring country’s response comes just a few days after Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir highlighted the “involvement of Afghan nationals” in terrorist incidents within Pakistan, noting its adverse impact on regional peace and stability.
Following the army chief and the FO’s comments, Afghan government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid claimed in an AFP interview on Wednesday that in the past year, 18 people “eliminated by our forces in Afghanistan” were Pakistani citizens.
“They were Daeshis (members of IS) and they were involved in various bombings and attacks,” he said, adding that dozens of others were being held in Afghan prisons.
“Instead of blaming Pakistan, the government of Afghanistan has strengthened its security measures,” it said.
It is the first time the Taliban authorities have publicly accused Pakistani nationals for attacks in Afghanistan.
Islamabad says militants carrying out attacks in Pakistan are operating from sanctuaries in Afghanistan and being aided by Afghan citizens.—AFP
