November 11, 2002	Monday	Ramazan 5, 1423

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KABUL, Nov 10: Twenty women prisoners jailed without trial in Afghanistan for violations of Shariat laws walked free on Sunday after a pardon was issued by Afghan President Hamid Karzai.

Emotional relatives greeted the women as they emerged from a Kabul prison, ending an anguished wait that began on Thursday when Karzai’s gesture, timed to coincide with Ramazan, was announced.

Freedom also came for one unpardoned inmate who capitalized on confusion surrounding the release of her fellow prisoners and managed to slip away.

Afghan authorities have been ordered by Karzai to investigate the cases of 11 remaining prisoners, including the absconder, with a view to securing their liberty within the next few weeks.

Deputy Interior Minister Halalludin, who visited the prison to oversee the release, said that some 118 men would also have their sentences investigated. Sunday’s release follows international pressure on the Afghan government to improve conditions for prisoners.

Many of the women were jailed for having illicit relationships or on minor theft charges, according to Kabul security commander Basir Salangi, who said they were released because the prison did not meet international standards.—AFP