8am: Many citizens of the country complain about various methods of extortion, bribery, and blackmail by the Taliban. They say that the Taliban, by employing new methods of bribery and extortion, have not only challenged administrative and social security, but have also created the groundwork for a natural crisis in Kabul. Sources say that Taliban members, if cash payment or providing facilities is not possible, obtain signatures and documents from applicants by setting deadlines. These sources also add that the Taliban issue construction permits in residential area development projects in exchange for receiving bribes; an action that has led to increased substandard construction and population density in the capital, which experts consider a serious threat to citizens’ health and the environment. Click here to read more (external link).