RASC News Agency: In a shift from earlier promises, the Taliban have decided to deploy fresh fighters, primarily of Pashtun descent, to the districts of Argo and Drayem in Badakhshan, following a recent agreement with local protesters and an explosion in the province. Sources reported on Thursday, May 9, that the Taliban have introduced new fighters equipped with advanced military equipment, including 10 tanks and 30 Ranger vehicles, to these districts.
Sources noted that these fighters have placed restrictions on local residents in various parts of Argo and Drayem districts, instructing them not to leave their homes without authorization. Reports indicate the explosion in Faizabad, the provincial capital of Badakhshan, has incited the Taliban’s anger, with the group blaming the incident on the protesters.
Previously, due to protests from Argo and Drayem residents, the Taliban’s Ministry of Interior had pledged to adjust the composition of their forces in Badakhshan, opting to replace “non-local fighters” with “local personnel.”
The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the explosion in Faizabad’s Third District, which sources say resulted in the deaths of nine Taliban members and injuries to dozens more.
