Civilians armed to protect mosques during Ashoura

Authorities in Afghanistan tightened security in Kabul in advance of Ashoura on Sunday, the holiest day in the Shia Muslim calendar, fearing attacks on worshippers.

The Afghan capital witnessed increased security, with extra police checkpoints set up in parts of the city where Ashoura processions traditionally take place.

But Kabul residents have raised concerns at the government's security plan, which includes arming hundreds of civilians to help protect mosques and religious processions that have come under attack recently.

Many residents Al Jazeera spoke to say the policy could be misused in the future. Last week, the government provided basic defence and weapons training to at least 500 volunteer guards to protect nearly 400 Shia mosques in Kabul.

"I think at the moment it is better to have extra security, but in the long run I don't feel comfortable with the idea of civilians in possessing weapons," Mohammad Sabir, a 50-year-old Shia worshipper, told Al Jazeera. "Will these weapons be taken back from them? Who will keep track of it?" he asked.

UCJ, UNILORIN.