Afghanistan: Taliban kill 22 police officers in Kandahar Nov. 13

Event

At approximately 20:00 (local time) on Monday, November 13, Taliban militants attacked multiple security checkpoints in the Zhari and Maiwand districts (Kandahar province, south). At least 22 police officers were killed, and at least 15 more injured. According to security officials, police forces repelled the attack, killing 45 Taliban members, and injuring 35 more.

Context

Taliban forces regularly perpetrate attacks on Afghan soil as they seek to reimpose strict Islamic law since being ousted by US-led forces in 2001. The Taliban tend to target government and military buildings and personnel as they fight the US-backed Kabul government.

The Taliban have been increasingly active since US President Donald Trump announced plans in September to send an additional 3000 troops to rout terrorist networks in the country.​

Advice

Due to major security concerns, 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.