Afghanistan: Dozens abducted in Jawzan province December 10

Event

Suspected Taliban militants have reportedly abducted 40 men during a funeral near the Shah Mirza check post (Fiazabad district, Jawzan province) on Tuesday, December 10. Security forces have begun search operations to locate the captives. Details are still emerging.

No group has immediately claimed responsibility for the kidnappings.

A heightened security presence is expected in the area. Similar attacks are possible 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 Jawzan province are advised to monitor the situation, avoid the affected area, 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.