8am: Local sources in Badakhshan province reveal the existence of an extensive and organized network for the plunder of gold mines and other natural resources by influential figures affiliated with the Taliban. According to sources, this process is carried out systematically using force, corruption, and collusion with some Taliban leaders. Sources also report the involvement of the Taliban governor in Badakhshan in mining extraction and smuggling, stating that by appointing loyal individuals, he has weakened local Taliban and is extensively involved in the pillaging of natural resources. These sources add that individuals affiliated with Faisal Khorasani, with the support of Mawlawi Saif al-Din Taayeb, deputy of the Taliban affairs administration, play an active role in the rampant extraction of mines, particularly gold in Shahr-e Bozorg district and other areas of Badakhshan. According to sources, these actions have not only led to the plunder of national wealth but have also caused serious damage to the environment and local ecosystem, significantly increasing the risk of an environmental crisis in the future. Click here to read more (external link).