36 Killed, Wounded in Clashes Between Taliban and Protesters in Badakhshan

DID Press: Local sources in northern Badakhshan province reported continued violent clashes between protesting residents and Taliban forces in several districts of the province. At least four people were killed and 32 other were injured in incidents, which began late last week.

The Taliban authorities have not yet issued an official statement regarding the details of the unrest.

According to sources, the main cause of the tensions is disputes over the ownership and exploitation of poppy fields and mining areas in the districts of Argo, Shaki, Khash, and Jurm. Two killed and eight were injured in clashes over land used for poppy cultivation in Argo district, witnesses said. Disputes linked to mining activities led to the deaths of two more people while 10 others were injured.

In Khash district, confrontations between local residents and Taliban forces left 11 people injured, while residents reportedly blocked roads and remained on high alert.

Meanwhile, in Jurm district, local armed resistance resulted in three injuries and the arrest of three individuals.

The Taliban have deployed reinforcements to the affected areas in an effort to regain control of the situation, sources added.

However, no official details have been released regarding the casualties or the overall security situation.