Police Blamed For Alienating Populace, Fueling Insurgency

British military commanders, just returned from operations in Afghanistan's southern Helmand province, say that the poor performance of local police and allegation of corruption have been driving civilians to join the Taliban, reports the Guardian (U.K.).

The police are frequently cited as a reason for local joining the Taliban, said Brig. James Cowan, commander of 11 Brigade, which recently came home from six months in Afghanistan.

In addition, Taliban fighters also often...