ZABUL, Afghanistan – Afghan Local Police started their first day of training for 12 new recruits in Arghandab district, Zabul province, Sept. 6.
“We strongly believe more people will join now that they will see that training has officially begun,” said a local village elder. ‘Security is essential for our continued growth.”
The training curriculum began with classes on basic hygiene and the importance of values and ethics in being a local police force. During the week ALP recruits will also learn basic tactics and weapon familiarization.
Afghan Local Police are selected by village elders and the local shura to provide protection from insurgents and other hostile forces threatening their villages. The program is connected to all levels of the Government of Afghanistan, and is administered by the Afghan Ministry of Interior.
Having Afghan Local Police in Arghandab will increase security measures and help pave the way for future development to occur in other neighboring villages.
“All the ALP recruits are from the Arghandab District and are passionate about manning and protecting the villages they live in,” said a U.S. Special Forces commander.