AP Exclusive: Afghans crack down on private security; 2 companies closed

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AP Exclusive: Afghans crack down on private security; 2 companies closed
By JASON STRAZIUSO and FISNIK ABRASHI,Associated Press Writers AP - Friday, October 12

KABUL, Afghanistan - Echoing a growing problem in Iraq, Afghan authorities have started to crack down on lucrative but largely unregulated security firms, some of which are suspected of murder.

Two private Afghan security companies were raided this week, and at least 10 more contractors _ including some protecting embassies _ will soon be closed, police and Western officials told The Associated Press.

The government is also proposing new rules to tighten control over such companies _ including some Western contractors _ amid concerns they intimidate Afghans, disrespect local security forces and don't cooperate with authorities, according to a policy draft document obtained by AP.

The crackdown echoes efforts by authorities in Iraq to rein in private security contractors often accused of acting with impunity. Blackwater USA guards protecting a U.S. Embassy convoy in Baghdad are accused of killing 17 Iraqi civilians last month, an incident that enraged the Iraqi government, which is demanding millions of dollars (euros) in compensation for the victims and the removal of Blackwater in six months.

The incident has also focused attention on the rules governing private guards and added to Washington's problems in managing the war in Iraq.

Dozens of security companies also operate in Afghanistan, some of them well-known U.S. firms such as Blackwater and Dyncorps, but also many others who may not be known even to the Afghan government.


Rest of article at: http://sg.news.yahoo.com/ap/20071011/tap-as-gen-afghan-contractor-crackdown-d3b07b8.html