Taliban Tightens the Net: Former Afghan Officials on the Lead List
Since the Taliban stormed Kabul last Sunday, they’ve been busy tightening their grip on anyone connected to the former administration or the US‑led forces that backed it. A Norwegian intelligence group, RHIPTO, reports that the Taliban are zero‑ing in on these “blacklisted” individuals, and if they can’t find them… well, you’re looking at a backup plan that involves family members.
What the Report Says
- Taliban “is intensifying the hunt‑down of all individuals and collaborators with the former regime.” If that fails, the law says the families will be caught in the crossfire.
- Targets? “Central positions in military, police, and investigative units” are the prime suspects.
- The report is a four‑page document circulated mainly to UN staff and security agencies.
- One leaked letter from the Taliban’s Military Commission warned a former counter‑terrorism official that refusal to cooperate would lead to “family arrest” under a strict interpretation of syariah law.
Do We Know Who Is at Risk?
The names are blurred out, but the gist is clear: anyone who once had a seat at the table with Western allies—especially those who visited the UK or had ties with the US—might find themselves on the Taliban’s radar.
What Does the Taliban Claim?
The movement has been trying to paint a “moderate” image to the world: “We want peace, not vengeance.” But the letter—and the broader report—suggest a more aggressive policy toward those they see as former collaborators.
Humor & Reality: What the Situation Feels Like
Imagine the Taliban’s security team turning into detectives with an oversized magnifying glass, hunting ghosts from the last regime. If you can’t turn up, the family might get a “called‑in“ cameo.
In short, the new guard is making sure that any old ties to former power structures don’t get a secret invitation into the new order. Stay tuned… and maybe keep your diaries locked.
