JALALABAD: As the latest precautionary measure to ensure a high degree of security, Afghan security forces have initiated a clearance operation in Jalalabad city, the capital of eastern Nangarhar province, and the neighbouring districts, the local government said.

The clearance operation was initiated on Sunday by the Interior and Defense Ministries' security services, as well as the National Intelligence Agency, as per a statement released by the government on Monday. The operation aimed to apprehend and eliminate thieves, kidnappers, and other criminals who had already been identified by security forces.

"Civilians and private property would be protected during the operation, and all precautionary steps had been taken. Residents of Nangarhar should not be concerned about this operation " the statement said

Hundreds of policewomen are claimed to be involved in the operation's house-to-house search, as per Xinhua news report.  In Jalalabad, a hostage was released on Sunday. The ongoing operation also resulted in the discovery and seizure of weapons and ammunition, as well as many state-owned vehicles, according to the statement. Citizens were urged to assist the security personnel during the operation, according to the statement.

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