23 Arrested in Theft and Smuggling Cases Across Four Afghan Provinces
The Taliban-run police have announced the arrest of 23 individuals across the provinces of Nimruz, Ghazni, Herat, and Khost in connection with various criminal offenses, including theft and smuggling.
The largest operation took place in Chahar Burjak district of Nimruz province, where 10 suspects were detained for allegedly attempting to smuggle nearly 20 tonnes of medicine and more than 800 liters of petrol. Located on the border with Iran, this region has long been a major route for the illegal trafficking of goods and fuel.
In another incident in the sixth district of Ghazni city, seven individuals were arrested for involvement in urban theft, including the stealing of two motorcycles, eight mobile phones, and a camera. Ghazni has seen a surge in theft and insecurity in recent months.
Meanwhile, in Herat province, police reported the arrest of five people on charges of theft and murder. In Khost, one individual was detained for stealing an auto rickshaw from the city center.
Despite the publication of such arrest reports, concerns persist about the lack of transparency in the judicial and legal processes under Taliban rule. The absence of independent judicial institutions and the lack of media oversight have raised fears over the denial of basic rights to suspects and the possibility that many may not receive fair trials.
