Afghanistan: Taliban militants kidnap six journalists in Paktia province September 6

Event

Taliban militants reportedly kidnapped six Afghan journalists in Paktia province on Friday, September 6, while traveling from adjacent Paktika province for a workshop. Provincial authorities were negotiating with the Taliban for the journalists' release as of Saturday, September 7.

Similar incidents are to be expected in Afghanistan 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.

Advice

Individuals in Paktia province are advised to monitor developments, liaise with their security partner, and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.

The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.