Afghanistan: Taliban militants kill six ANA soldiers in Sar-e Pol January 31

Event

Taliban militants launched attacks on security checkpoints in Sozma Qala district (Sar-e Pol province) on the night (local time) of Thursday, January 31, killing six Afghan National Army (ANA) soldiers and wounding seven others before being pushed back. Similar Taliban attacks are possible in the area 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.