Taliban Threaten Arrests Over Videos of Kandahar Clashes

Following a clash between armed Taliban personnel and drug vendors in the pharmaceutical markets of Kandahar’s District One, Taliban authorities have warned those who posted videos of the incident that they will be arrested if the videos are not removed from social media platforms.

One individual said that the Taliban inquired about his residence and intended to arrest him. Consequently, he deleted the video from his Facebook account and fled his home. He is currently in a secret location and is too fearful to return due to security concerns.

The clash took place on Wednesday on Now Road in Kandahar, where the Taliban had arbitrarily begun confiscating medicines. Local residents report that instead of addressing the conduct of their armed members, the Taliban have applied pressure and threats against those who filmed and shared footage of the event.

Earlier reports indicated that 22 people were arrested following these clashes, with threats made against others. Residents expressed deep concern over the Taliban’s response, stating that shifting focus from the actions of Taliban members to suppressing freedom of expression has worsened the insecurity in the area.

According to some witnesses, footage of the clashes remains available on other social media accounts; however, the Taliban insist on removal of these videos and have not permitted those threatened to continue their activities.