Distressing news has emerged from local sources in Panjshir, reporting the tragic death of a resident from this province who fell victim to brutal torture at the hands of the Taliban in Herat. The individual, originally planning to travel to Iran, was apprehended by the Taliban at the Islam Qala border crossing. Subsequently, he underwent severe torture during his 22-day captivity in Herat, which ultimately led to his untimely demise.
According to accounts provided by Hasht-e Subh, the victim has been identified as Fayazul-Haq. On Tuesday, August 22, reports indicate that he was “strangled” within the confines of the Herat prison by Taliban operatives.
Further information reveals that the Taliban has yet to release the remains of the deceased to his grieving family, adding to their distress.
It is noteworthy that Fayazul-Haq did not possess a military background. The pretext for his apprehension was a “photograph in military attire” found on his computer. This single piece of evidence led to his arrest and subsequent incarceration in Herat.
Up to this point, the Taliban has not issued any official statement regarding this distressing incident.
It is important to underscore that since assuming power, the Taliban have detained hundreds of Panjshir residents, subjecting them to imprisonment and, in some dire cases, execution.
Throughout the two years of the Taliban’s rule over Afghanistan, numerous human rights organizations have levelled accusations against the group, citing widespread human rights violations and the targeted killing of former military personnel.
In a recent development, the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) has published a report documenting approximately 800 instances of human rights abuses perpetrated by the Taliban.
