UNAMA Reports Hundreds of Arbitrary Detentions; Taliban Reject Findings

The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has announced in its latest quarterly report that the Taliban’s Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice carried out at least 443 arbitrary arrests and detentions across the country from July to September. The report, covering the period from July 1 to September 30, documents numerous human rights violations. According to the report, most arrests were related to alleged violations of hijab regulations for women, shortening of beards for men, not attending congregational prayers, and listening to music.

UNAMA also recorded 97 cases of ill-treatment of men and women by the ministry’s staff. The report cites specific incidents, including the arrest of women in Herat for not wearing a chador, women being denied entry to health centers without a mahram, and a 13-year-old girl being detained overnight over hijab. The agency also documented 14 arbitrary detentions and four killings of former security force members, and pressure on institutions linked to the Shia community, including the closure of Khatam al-Nabiyin University.

In response, Taliban government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid rejected the report, asking UNAMA to base its assessments on “objective realities” instead of “propaganda.” Mr. Mujahid stated that individuals were detained “for reform” and according to existing laws, and that UNAMA ignores the Taliban government’s achievements.