RASC News Agency: Local sources in Baghlan province report that several foreign terrorist groups, allegedly supported by the Taliban, have established a presence in the region. According to these sources, three extremist factions Chechens, Uyghurs, and Ansarullah of Tajikistan are actively operating in Baghlan. On Wednesday, March 5, a source speaking to RASC confirmed that local residents have witnessed armed fighters affiliated with these groups. The source, who requested anonymity due to security concerns, disclosed that approximately 50 Chechen militants are stationed at the Karkar coal mine, receiving financial and logistical support from Mullah Aziz Haqyar, a senior Taliban commander.
Furthermore, 19 fighters belonging to the Tajikistani extremist group Ansarullah have been deployed in Rabatak Pass, a strategic location between Baghlan and Samangan provinces. These militants are reportedly funded and protected by Mawlawi Jawad, the Taliban’s provincial police chief in Baghlan. The source also revealed that members of these groups have been seen visiting Taliban offices in the province. Additionally, another faction, believed to be composed of Uyghur militants, has reportedly settled in the Anarkhil region of Baghlan. While the exact number of fighters remains unclear, they are also said to be under the protection of Taliban authorities.
Despite persistent denials from the Taliban regarding the presence of foreign extremist groups in Afghanistan, multiple international reports and local testimonies contradict these claims. Two days ago, residents of Tala wa Barfak district reported the landing of two helicopters in the area under the cover of night. According to eyewitness accounts, the aircraft offloaded supplies to unidentified armed individuals. Since the Taliban’s return to power, Afghanistan has become a sanctuary for various militant organizations, many of which now operate with impunity under the group’s rule.
