Afghanistan: Taliban militants kill seven police officers in Farah Feb. 9

Event

Taliban militants launched an attack on a security checkpoint in the Chakaw area of Bala Buluk district (Farah province) on Saturday, February 9. According to local sources, the militants attacked the outpost at approximately 20:00 (local time), killing at least seven police officers and seizing weapons and ammunition. Similar Taliban attacks against security forces are possible in Farah province over the near term.

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 to gain leverage amid ongoing peace negotiations.

Advice

Individuals in Afghanistan are advised to monitor developments to the situation, 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.