Local sources have reported an escalation of ethnic tensions in Paktia province, with Mullah Azizullah, the Taliban governor of Samkanai district, allegedly issuing orders for individuals under his command to open fire on non-combatants during mediation efforts between the “Samkanai and Moqbil” ethnic groups.
According to the sources, at least 13 individuals from the “Moqbil” community sustained injuries in the aftermath of a confrontation that occurred on Monday, December 11. The condition of five of the injured is reported to be critical.
It is claimed that following the incident, the Taliban governor in Samkanai issued the directive to shoot as members of the “Moqbil” community resisted his decision regarding a land dispute, citing insubordination.
Allegedly, tensions between these two ethnic groups over a land division issue have persisted for 80 years, and the Taliban governor has sided with the “Samkanai” community in resolving the dispute.
Sources specify that Mullah Azizullah had previously issued a warning before deciding on the dispute, stating that “no one” has permission to challenge his decision.
Approximately two months ago, Mullah Azizullah was relieved of his position, but he has since been reinstated in collaboration with Mawlawi Zinullah, the Chief of Staff to the acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Taliban.
As of now, the Taliban has not commented on these allegations.
It is noteworthy that family disputes over land in various districts of Paktia province have previously resulted in casualties, with reported incidents of both fatalities and injuries.
