Taliban fighters (file photo)

8am: Local sources from Kabul and northern provinces report a surge in Taliban detentions of both former government military personnel and civilians. Dozens of individuals have been detained in recent weeks across these provinces and taken to undisclosed locations. The Taliban allegedly detain these individuals on various pretexts and release them upon payment or the provision of weapons. Sources further claim that detainees face severe torture in Taliban prisons to compel them to pay. Meanwhile, civil activists accuse the Taliban of extortion and hostile behavior, highlighting the group’s daily disrespect toward Afghans. They suggest that Taliban pressures have prompted more citizens to flee or attempt escape. Political analysts attribute the Taliban’s actions to playing on ethnic and religious prejudices, noting similarities to their previous rule. Click here to read more (external link).