Afghanistan – Police Intensify Arms Seizures Across Multiple Provinces to Reinforce Security

Afghanistan – Police authorities in eastern Afghanistan have recovered a cache of weapons and detained two suspected smugglers during a routine checkpoint operation, underscoring ongoing efforts to curb the illegal circulation of arms and strengthen public safety nationwide.

The provincial police office in Paktia confirmed on Monday that the incident occurred on Sunday afternoon when officers stopped a vehicle at a security checkpoint along a major roadway. A search of the car led to the discovery of a Kalashnikov assault rifle, two hand grenades, and a supply of ammunition concealed inside the vehicle.

Suspects Detained at Checkpoint in Paktia

According to the police statement, two individuals traveling in the vehicle were taken into custody on suspicion of attempting to transport the weapons unlawfully. The suspects have since been handed over to judicial authorities for further legal proceedings and investigation into possible links to broader smuggling networks.

Police officials reiterated that civilians are prohibited from possessing or transporting firearms without authorization. The statement emphasized that law enforcement agencies remain committed to preventing the illegal movement of weapons and maintaining order throughout the province.

Helmand Operation Leads to Major Weapons Recovery

The seizure in Paktia follows a series of similar operations reported in other parts of the country. In southern Helmand province, Afghan security forces concluded a three-month counter-terrorism campaign that resulted in the confiscation of dozens of firearms and a significant volume of ammunition.

Mawlawi Sayed Wali Saeed, the provincial counter-terrorism manager, stated on January 29 that 26 individuals were arrested in connection with the recovered weapons. Authorities described the operation as part of a broader effort to dismantle armed groups operating outside the framework of state security institutions.

Weapon Cache Discovered in Northern Baghlan

Earlier this month, police in northern Baghlan province uncovered another weapons stockpile during a targeted security operation. Provincial police chief Mawlawi Abdul Haq Haqqani said the cache was found in Deh Salah district on January 8.

While officials did not disclose specific details about the quantity or types of weapons recovered, they confirmed that the discovery included a range of arms and ammunition. Police stressed that no individual or group is permitted to store or carry weapons illegally and vowed to continue collection efforts to prevent potential security threats.

Arrests and Seizures Reported in Parwan Province

Similar enforcement actions were also reported in eastern Parwan province, where police announced the recovery of 21 firearms and the arrest of 18 individuals on January 7. Authorities said the operation was conducted as part of routine security checks aimed at identifying unauthorized weapons in civilian areas.

Local officials noted that such measures are essential to reducing crime and preventing armed incidents in residential communities.

Government Push to Control Illegal Arms

The Afghan government has repeatedly pledged to remove weapons from the hands of individuals who are not affiliated with official security bodies. Officials say the widespread presence of illicit arms poses a serious challenge to long-term stability in the post-war environment.

In November last year, police in Uruzgan province uncovered a large weapons cache hidden inside a residential property. Three individuals were arrested in connection with the discovery, according to provincial authorities.

Bilal Uruzgani, spokesperson for the provincial police, said the seized items included hand grenades, rocket shells, bullets, and various other munitions. Investigators have since launched follow-up inquiries to determine whether additional suspects are linked to the stash.

Authorities across multiple provinces continue to stress that enforcing arms regulations remains a priority as security forces work to restore order and prevent violence.