http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/world/uk-fears-for-afghan-police/story-e6frg6so-1225846604632
UK fears for Afghan police From: AFP March 29, 2010 12:00AM LONDON: Serious concerns over the Afghan National Police have been voiced in leaked British documents, which warn that building an effective force will take "many years". The Independent on Sunday quoted internal Foreign Office papers saying non-existent "ghost recruits" may account for up to a quarter of the force's alleged strength, while concerns are also raised over drug use. "The scale of the challenge is immense," a briefing for a British official said, according to the newspaper. "Building an independent, professional and accountable police force will take many years and require considerable international support." Plans are in place to expand the strength of Afghan police from about 100,000 to 160,000 as part of the fight against the Taliban insurgency. A spokeswoman for the Foreign Office said: "We are aware of widespread criticisms of the ANP, some of which are deeply concerning. The UK is fully committed to police reform to ensure a professional and accountable police force." [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
