DHAKA: Afghanistan is to release all but 16 of 88 prisoners regarded as a security threat by the United States.

The White House has said, reports Sky News.

Afghan officials have said they do not have enough evidence to try the other 72 detainees so they will be freed.

The US is strongly opposed to their release because it says the prisoners have been involved in the wounding or killing of American and coalition troops.

The move could further damage relations between the two countries, which have been strained over president Hamid Karzai’s refusal to sign a security deal to shape the US military presence after most foreign troops leave this year.

BDST: 2019 HRS, JAN 09, 2014
Edited by Robab Rosan, Current Affairs Editor