The Information and Culture Directorate of Paktia says they have discovered ancient relics in Mirzakai district which could date back about 4,000 years.

Some of the relics are made of gold and silver, and include decorative items, tools, dishes and shoes.

“According to important historical documents, pictures of Sikandar (the Persian name for Alexander the Great) were found here which are now stored at a British museum,” said Mohammad Shefa Mushfiq, the provincial director of information and culture.

Local residents said some relics found in the area in the past were smuggled abroad during the civil wars.

“People excavated the area but they faced problems after finding tools made of gold,” said Sado Khan, a resident of Mirzakai district.

“There were statues, and gold and silver among the ancient pieces. It is not known which era they belong to,” another resident Barat said.

Some residents said the area has a number of historical sites which have been covered by sand through the years. 

“There are many things under this hill; there are statues and many buildings,” said Nazar Jan, a local resident.

Paktia cultural activists said government needs to deploy forces to secure the historical sites in the province and to prevent illegal excavations.