Taliban Commander Admits Civilian Deaths in Badakhshan Protest Crackdown

DID Press: A Taliban commander from Badakhshan has acknowledged that civilians were killed during the suppression of protests in Yaftal-e Paeen district, describing the incident as “tragic” and saying those responsible would have to answer before both the people and God. Local sources report that at least three people were killed and several others wounded, including a woman.

Salahuddin Salar wrote on Facebook on Saturday evening that “innocent people are being martyred,” calling the violence in Yaftal-e Paeen a deeply regrettable incident. While he did not specify the number of casualties, his statement appeared to acknowledge that civilians had been killed during the crackdown.

The protests began after residents of Yaftal-e Paeen district in Badakhshan Province demonstrated over the reported body search of a woman by Taliban personnel. According to local sources, Taliban forces opened fire on protesters, escalating the unrest.

Local sources said at least three people—including one Taliban member—were killed, while seven others were injured. Among the wounded was a woman, whose evacuation by local residents was shown in images circulated online.

Local sources also reported that Nur Khan, the Taliban’s newly appointed district commander in Yaftal-e Paeen, later addressed residents and reportedly said he would resign if “disrespect” toward local people continued. He was appointed after Taliban forces regained control of the district following a brief takeover by the armed group known as the Sepahiyan-e Mihan Front, according to local accounts.

The Taliban has not issued a comprehensive official statement on the reported casualties or announced any investigation into the incident.