Taliban arrests four on witchcraft charges in Kabul and Takhar
The Taliban's Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice announced that its muhtasebs arrested four individuals on witchcraft charges in Kabul and Takhar provinces. In a press release issued on Saturday, 25 Dalu, the ministry accused the four of "deception."
The ministry stated that the individuals pretended to possess "inner powers" and carried out actions "contrary to Islamic Sharia."
A law on the Promotion of Virtue, passed in Asad 1403, grants muhtasebs the authority to arrest individuals. Following its approval, the ministry declared that taweez writing, sorcery and witchcraft are prohibited across Afghanistan.
More in Society
UN Population Fund: 12 Million Girls Married Before Age 18 Every Year
Shopkeepers: Out of fear of Taliban, we did not offer Valentine's items
Mirwais Balkhi: Afghan Diaspora Has Dual Responsibilities Toward Afghanistan and Host Country
International Red Cross Provided Health Services to Over Two Million Patients in Afghanistan in 2025
ReliableUN Population Fund: 12 Million Girls Married Before Age 18 Every Year
The UN Population Fund reports that 12 million girls worldwide marry before age 18 annually, with 640 million women alive today having been married as children. The practice is described as a human rights violation that endangers girls' health.
ReliableShopkeepers: Out of fear of Taliban, we did not offer Valentine's items
Taliban bans and surveillance have prompted shopkeepers in Herat and Kabul to avoid selling or displaying Valentine's Day items, with prohibition signs at flower shops. Residents view the day as a harmless occasion for affection despite the restrictions.
ReliableMirwais Balkhi: Afghan Diaspora Has Dual Responsibilities Toward Afghanistan and Host Country
Mirwais Balkhi told a meeting at George Washington University that the Afghan diaspora must fulfill dual responsibilities to both host countries and Afghanistan while addressing integration challenges, particularly for women. Participants highlighted the human capital of post-Taliban exodus migrants and Afghanistan's resulting expertise shortage.
ReliableInternational Red Cross Provided Health Services to Over Two Million Patients in Afghanistan in 2025
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Federation in Afghanistan delivered health services to over two million patients in 2025 amid crises like migrant returns and drought, with significant focus on women and girls. The organization also provided cash aid, shelter and awareness programs, as the UN warns of ongoing humanitarian challenges.