Hakima Ahmadi, 34, who is the mother of four children, has served in the ranks of the Afghan National Police (ANP) in Balkh province for seven years.

She says the presence of women within the ranks of the Afghan security forces is a necessity, and that without women in the security sector Afghanistan’s security institutions will be vulnerable.

She suggested that the government undertake programs to increase the recruitment of women in the ranks of the security forces.

Hakima has participated in a series of search operations in Chimtal district of Balkh.

“There was a brawl between the residents there. Some armed women were beating the police, but when they saw me among the police, they calmed down and were prepared to talk, so this is a great achievement for female police officers,” said Hakima Ahmadi.

Currently, there are about 150 women serving as police officers in the ANP in Balkh province.

Anisa Amiri is another female officer who has served in the ANP for sixteen years now.

“We made a series of arrests that are related to weapons and drugs. This is a great achievement for us,” said Anisa Amiri.

“We hope that the women will be able to play a more constructive role in the ranks of the police force. We need to pave the way and create a safe environment for them,” said Massouma Rahimi, director of the Afghan Women's Network in Balkh.

“Over 150 women serve in the police force in Balkh, they are conducting duties in very important places,” said Mohammad Ajmal Faez, the commander of the Balkh police.

According to the Ministry of Interior, 2,800 female police officers are serving in the ranks of the police force in the country.