NDS issues clarification regarding controversial raid against Al-Qaeda hideout in Helmand

The operation had sparked outrage among local residents who were demanding immediate release of women.
In the meantime, the National Directorate of Security issued a statement on Saturday afternoon, stating that the two women were held by female soldiers of the directorate.
The statement further added that the presidential palace had issued instructions to launch an investigation into the incident and to respond to protests of local residents.
Emphasizing that the case is a sensitive issue and has links with the national security of the country, NDS said the Afghan intelligence operatives conducted their operation considering and fully respecting the enforced laws, Islamic principles, and traditional values of the country.
The National Directorate of Security also added that the two women who were temporarily arrested have been released after contacts were established with their family.
In the meantime, the National Directorate of Security also noted that the office of the president has instructions to Afghan national defense and security forces and their international partners to take necessary measures to ensure safety of the women and children who are being used as human shields by terrorist groups in a cowardly manner and in violation of Islamic and Afghan traditional values.