Afghanistan: Taliban attack in Ghor province April 17

Event

Gunmen allegedly associated with the Taliban killed at least six people near Chaghcharan (Ghor province) on the morning of Tuesday, April 17. The victims were reportedly of the often-targeted Shi’a Hazara minority. Later on the same day, the Taliban kidnapped three workers from the Independent Election Commision (IEC) as well as two police officers from the city.

Context

The Taliban has made gains in various parts of the country, including in Ghor province, since most foreign combat troops withdrew from Afghanistan at the end of 2014. The Taliban tend to target government and military buildings and personnel as they fight the US-backed Kabul government, and have been increasingly active since US President Trump announced plans in September 2017 to send an additional 3000 troops to rout terrorist networks in the country.

Advice

Due to major security concerns in the country, individuals throughout Afghanistan are urged to keep a safe distance from large gatherings, military convoys, government buildings, and crowded urban areas. Many Western governments advise their citizens against travel to Afghanistan due to the high threat of kidnapping and terrorism, including frequent attacks against Afghan National Defense and Security Forces, local civilians and politicians, and individuals working in the humanitarian and reconstruction fields. Travel to the country should only be undertaken with proper security protocols in place.