Esa Khan Zawak, the district governor of Achin district in eastern Nangarhar province, said on Friday Daesh was still firmly entrenched in the area where they had military bases, training centers, prisons and even a court.

“We are in offensive status and do not feel serious threats, but almost 80 percent of the fighters are foreigners,” he said.

“They are 100 meters away from us,” said Abdul Samad, local police commander.

Reports have indicated that Daesh in Afghanistan are being supported by people outside the country and are therefore able to maintain their presence in Achin district.

TOLOnews journalists, Sharif Amiry and Ziar Yad spoke to Mohammad Amin whose brother was beheaded 12 days ago by Daesh.

Amin said his brother had five children, who he now has to care for. However, this was not the first person in his family to fall victim to Daesh.

“Recently one person in my family was killed (by Daesh). Before this a number of my family members were killed by Daesh,” Mohammad Amin said.

Residents say however that despite having to deal with the problems the Daesh incur, they are still hopeful about their future.
Tariq is one young resident who hopes to one day become a doctor.

“I hope that the war ends and peace comes to Achin district, because if security is not maintained, then there would not be any progress in schools,” he said.