RASC News Agency: On January 4th, according to sources from Balkh province, the intelligence forces of the Taliban apprehended Mufti Nasir Ahmad Abu Khaled, the head of labor and social affairs for the province, on charges of embezzlement. Mufti Nasir Ahmad, a member of the Uzbek Taliban residing in the Sholgara district of Balkh province, is now in custody. The local Taliban officials in Balkh have refrained from commenting on this incident, notwithstanding the arrest of several group members on diverse charges, including administrative and moral corruption, in various provinces.
This development carries significance as it contradicts the Taliban’s assertions of combating moral and administrative corruption. Reports indicate that officials within the group have been implicated in immoral acts and administrative corruption in numerous instances. Recently, an official from the Taliban was apprehended in Parwan province, facing bribery charges at the passport directorate. Moreover, there are allegations that many group members arrested for administrative and moral corruption were subsequently released without consequences.
The arrest of Mufti Nasir Ahmad Abu Khaled brings attention to corruption within the Taliban, particularly in Balkh province. Despite their proclaimed commitment to combating corruption, it is evident that officials within the group have engaged in embezzlement and other immoral activities. This raises concerns about the credibility and integrity of the Taliban, questioning their ability to govern effectively and bring stability to the country. The lack of response from local officials regarding this incident further compounds concerns about the group’s dedication to addressing corruption within their ranks.