RASC News Agency: Residents of Herat province in western Afghanistan have reported a surge in armed thefts. Mohammad Bashiri, a Herat resident, informed RASC News on Tuesday, December 12, that incidents of armed vehicle thefts have increased, with those responsible for these crimes eluding capture for several months. Bashiri attributed the rise in thefts to unemployment and a lack of economic opportunities among families. The constraints and expulsions of Afghanistani from neighboring countries, coupled with economic challenges, have driven some individuals to resort to theft as a means of supporting their families.
Gholam Rasoul, another Herat resident, expressed to RASC, “People are weary of unemployment and the dearth of job prospects in Afghanistan. They desire the country to furnish employment opportunities, rather than an illusion of security pushing numerous youths to seek livelihoods outside the country.” Rasoul emphasized that people’s patience has worn thin due to poverty and unemployment, leading them to consider migration to neighboring countries, where additional challenges await.
Jawed Wafahi, a security affairs expert, conveyed to RASC, “Despite a decline in the intensity of war, suicides, and explosions in Afghanistan provinces, instances of armed thefts persist. During the Republic government, armed theft was notably prevalent, restricting movement after 7 PM. However, these incidents persist.” Wafahi asserted that, beyond ensuring security in Afghanistan, high-ranking Taliban officials must collaborate more in generating employment opportunities for the youth to effectively address these societal challenges.
The increase in thefts and public grievances about unemployment arises amidst reports from senior Taliban authorities assuring security and favorable job conditions in Afghanistan. Contradictory reports from Herat province suggest a rise in armed theft statistics compared to the previous year. In many cases, the lack of employment opportunities and the absence of an organized institution to apprehend these thieves are cited as reasons for these incidents.
