Former Afghan Security Personnel Face Growing Threats Under Taliban Rule
Kabul — Concerns are mounting over the safety of former Afghan security personnel despite the Taliban's previous announcements of a general amnesty. Reports from Afghan media outlets and United Nations human rights monitoring missions indicate an increase in killings, arrests, and alleged abuses targeting former members of the country's security and intelligence institutions.
According to Afghanistan International, Hasht-e Subh, and The Kabul Now, several former military and intelligence officials have recently been killed or abducted in separate incidents across Afghanistan.
Former Commanders Killed in Badakhshan, Paktika, and Parwan
Reports from different provinces highlight a number of recent incidents involving former security officials:
- Former NDS Deputy Chief Killed: Abdul Jamil Joya, a former deputy head of Afghanistan's National Directorate of Security (NDS) in Badakhshan and a senior security official, was reportedly killed in an armed attack in Faizabad.
- Former Police Officer Shot Dead: Former police officer Mohammad Omar was reportedly killed by unidentified gunmen in Jani Khel district, Paktika Province.
- Former Military Commander Abducted and Killed: Former Afghan military commander Hashmatullah was allegedly abducted in Parwan Province, with his body later discovered.
UN and UNAMA Express Concern Over Human Rights Situation
The United Nations has continued to express concern regarding reports of violence against former government employees and security personnel.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated:
"Reports of killings, arbitrary arrests, and human rights violations against former government officials and security personnel continue to emerge in Afghanistan."
According to the latest quarterly report by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) covering 26 January to 31 March, documented cases include:
- 5 verified killings of former officials.
- 20 cases of arbitrary detention involving former personnel.
- 8 documented cases of alleged torture or ill-treatment.
Analysts Point to Concerns Over Suppression of Former Security Networks
Security and regional affairs analysts suggest that the reported actions may be aimed at preventing potential opposition from former members of Afghanistan's security forces.
They argue that experienced former military commanders and intelligence personnel continue to be viewed as potential security risks, contributing to ongoing concerns about reprisals despite earlier assurances of amnesty.