Afghanistan: Taliban kills 27 security forces in multiple attacks Sep. 16-17

Event

Taliban militants killed at least 27 security forces members in multiple attacks in the provinces of Farah, Badghis, and Baghlan on Sunday, September 16, and Monday, September 17. In Farah province, Taliban fighters launched attacks on security checkpoints beginning on Sunday night (local time), killing at least 17 security forces members in Pusht Rod district and Bala Buluk district. On Monday morning, Taliban militants killed at least five police officers near Qala-i-Now (Badghis province). In Baghlan, at least five security forces personnel were killed and four others were wounded in an attack on an army-police base in Baghlani Markzazi district. Additional Taliban attacks targeting security forces are to be expected in Afghanistan, particularly in the abovementioned provinces, over the coming weeks.

Context

Taliban militants frequently launch attacks on security forces in Afghanistan. Such assaults are likely 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 in 2014 and ahead of parliamentary and district elections scheduled in October.

Advice

Individuals in Afghanistan are advised to monitor the situation, avoid large public gatherings as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities. 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.