Afghanistan: Taliban allegedly detain ten foreign nationals as of Feb. 11

Event

Local media reports indicate the Taliban have detained ten foreign nationals as of Feb. 11. The arrested foreign nationals comprise nine international organization workers and an independent journalist. The journalist, a UK national who formerly worked for the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), was arrested in Kabul. Additional details regarding the identities of the foreigners and the arrests are not immediately clear. Taliban officials have not clarified details regarding the detentions.

Context

Foreigners continue to face a significant risk of kidnappings and detentions in Afghanistan, particularly after the Taliban took power in August and international forces departed the country. Although locals are most frequently affected, foreigners remain high-value kidnap and detention targets. Civil organizations hold the Taliban responsible for recent crackdowns on activists and journalists.

Advice

Exercise caution due to the threat posed by kidnapping and detention. Do not discuss itineraries publicly. Individuals operating in the area for the long term should regularly vary routes and travel times. Refrain from criticizing the Taliban or its policies.