Reports highlight rising attacks on former Afghan security officials

Former Afghan security officials are facing increasing threats, including alleged targeted killings, arrests and abuse, according to media reports and recent findings by the United Nations.

Reports published by Afghan media outlets have raised questions over the Taliban authorities’ claims of a general amnesty for former government employees and security personnel. 

The reports suggest that incidents involving former officials have continued in different parts of the country.

According to The Afghanistan International, Abdul Jamil Joya, a former deputy head of the National Directorate of Security in Badakhshan Province, died after being attacked by armed assailants. 

The report stated that he had been seriously injured in the attack, which took place in Faizabad, before later succumbing to his injuries.

Afghan publication Hasht-e Subh described Joya as an influential figure who had served in several government departments and within the Greater Badakhshan Urban Security Directorate during the previous administration.

In a separate incident, The Kabul Now reported that armed men killed former police officer Mohammad Omar in the Janikhel district of Paktika Province on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, The Afghanistan International reported that former Afghan military commander Hashmatullah was abducted and later killed in Parwan Province last week.

The concerns have also been highlighted by the United Nations.

According to a recent statement by António Guterres, incidents involving the killing, detention and alleged mistreatment of former government employees and security personnel continue to be reported in Afghanistan.

A recent quarterly report issued by the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan stated that between 26 January and 31 March, five killings, 20 arrests and eight cases of alleged mistreatment involving former officials were recorded across the country.

Political analysts quoted in various reports argue that former security personnel and military commanders are being targeted as the Taliban authorities seek to consolidate power and curb growing resistance movements. 

The Taliban administration has consistently maintained that a general amnesty remains in place, while rights groups and international organisations continue to monitor reports of alleged violations.