UK PRESS STATEMENT - DEATH OF CHIEF JUDGE ALIM HANIF

The following press statement was issued by the British Embassy, Kabul, at 3 pm Thursday 4^th August.

The British Ambassador to Afghanistan, Sir Sherard Cowper-Coles, condemns in the strongest possible terms the brutal and cowardly murder of Judge Mohammad Alim Hanif, director and Chief Judge of the Central Narcotics Tribunal court of appeal.

Judge Hanif was shot as he prepared to travel to work this morning in Kabul.

Sir Sherard said: “I am deeply shocked and saddened by the murder of Judge Alim Hanif. He was renowned for his integrity, courage and commitment to justice.”

“His death is an immense loss and our heartfelt condolences go to his family, colleagues and the people of Afghanistan he served so selflessly”.

The Ambassador also welcomed the prompt opening of a special investigation and hoped that it would result in the perpetrators being brought to justice.

The United Kingdom will continue to support the Government of Afghanistan’s efforts to stop the drugs trade that fuels instability, criminality and corruption.