Afghanistan: Militants abduct 12 civilians in Farah province January 5

Event

Suspected Taliban insurgents intercepted a civilian vehicle traveling outside Farah city (Farah province) and abducted at least 12 people on Saturday, January 5. Authorities believe the militants subsequently killed two hostages and transported ten others to an unknown location. A heightened security presence is likely in the surroundings of Farah city in the coming hours and days. Additional abductions in the near term cannot be ruled out. 

Context

Afghan security forces reportedly rescued 12 hostages during a raid on an apparent Taliban compound in Helmand province on January 3. Officials suspect the January 5 abductions were in response to the earlier hostage rescue raid. 

Taliban and Islamic State (IS) militants launch attacks on government personnel, security forces, and civilians in Afghanistan on a near-daily basis. Such assaults are in part intended to undermine the perceived capacity of Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) - and the Afghan government more broadly - to adequately provide security in the wake of the withdrawal of most US-led NATO forces from the country and in the aftermath of parliamentary and district elections held October 20.

Advice

Individuals in Afghanistan, particularly in Farah province, are advised to remain vigilant for militant activity and adhere to instructions and advice issued by their home governments.

The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.