Taliban Intelligence Detains Former District Governor in Laghman Province

Local sources in Laghman have confirmed to Afghanistan International that Taliban intelligence forces have detained Habibullah, the former governor of Dawlat Shah and Alingar districts under the previous government.

The sources indicated that Habibullah had continued to work in the administrative offices of Laghman province under Taliban rule.

According to multiple reports on Sunday, 7 January, Taliban intelligence arrested Habibullah at his home last Wednesday.

A relative of Habibullah told Afghanistan International:

“He was at his post until Wednesday. Two Taliban intelligence officials took him away. He had no disputes with anyone, which is why he continued his work during the Taliban administration.”

The sources further reported that several tribal elders attempted to meet Habibullah in person, but local Taliban authorities denied them access.

The Taliban has not yet issued any statement regarding his detention.

Following their rise to power, the Taliban’s leader, Hibatullah Akhundzada, declared a general amnesty. However, numerous reports have since emerged of former government officials, particularly military personnel, being killed under mysterious circumstances.

Over the past three years, there have also been consistent reports of the Taliban detaining and torturing former military officers, with some reportedly losing their lives as a result of such treatment.