Taliban Arrests Dozens of Women in Herat, Allegedly Demanding Money from Families for Their Release

Taliban Arrests Dozens of Women in Herat, Allegedly Demanding Money from Families for Their Release
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Local sources in Afghanistan have reported that Taliban members have arrested dozens of women in the western city of Herat, amid allegations that authorities demanded money from some families in exchange for releasing the detainees.

The sources said the arrests took place over the past two days in the Andisha and Friday Bazaar areas of Herat. The exact number of detained women and details of all cases could not be independently verified.

According to the reports, Taliban-linked authorities allegedly requested payments from the families of some detained women for their release, while some families claimed that their relatives remained in custody even after money had been handed over.

The arrests have reportedly increased fear among residents, with many reluctant to protest or challenge the measures due to concerns over possible repercussions. The developments come amid growing reports of tighter restrictions on women in Herat, particularly regarding clothing and hijab regulations.

Herat has witnessed protests in recent months over the detention of women and restrictions imposed on them. Local reports said some of those demonstrations were dispersed by security forces and participants faced further measures.

The reported arrests have also led some women to limit their movement outside their homes, amid expanded powers given to Taliban morality enforcement authorities to monitor public behavior and appearance.

The United Nations and international rights organizations have repeatedly expressed concern over restrictions imposed on Afghan women and girls, calling on Taliban authorities to respect their rights to safety, education, freedom of movement, and participation in public life.