Afghanistan: Taliban militants kill 21 people in Badghis province January 6

Event

Taliban militants killed 21 police officers and pro-government militiamen in attacks on security checkpoints in Badghis province on Sunday, January 6, ahead of expected peace talks with US officials later this month. The clashes also reportedly left over 15 Taliban militants dead. Similar Taliban attacks on government installations are possible in Afghanistan over the coming weeks.

Context

Taliban 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 ahead of expected peace talks with US government officials slated for January 2019.

Advice

Individuals in Afghanistan, particularly in Badghis 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.