Local sources have told Nimruztv that Taliban intelligence authorities in Ghor Province have detained approximately 70 elders from Zarbid village in Taywara district and surrounding areas after summoning them for discussions.
According to the sources, four days have passed since the detentions, and family members still have no information regarding the location or condition of those being held.
Sources said on Monday that the detentions followed a dispute that erupted last week over the harvesting of a valuable mountain plant known locally as “Washa.”
According to local accounts, Taliban authorities invited community elders to travel to Firozkoh, the provincial capital of Ghor, for talks aimed at resolving tensions related to the dispute.
The elders reportedly accepted the invitation and traveled to the city for negotiations. However, sources claim they were subsequently detained and have not returned to their communities.
Family members say no communication has been established with the detainees since their arrest, increasing concern among relatives and local residents.
The Taliban have not publicly commented on either the reported detentions or the events surrounding last week’s dispute in Taywara district.
Local sources previously reported clashes in Zarbid market between residents and individuals from Helmand Province over the collection of the rare mountain plant.
According to those accounts, groups from outside the area had traveled to collect the plant, prompting objections from local residents who consider it an important source of seasonal income.
Sources further alleged that Taliban forces intervened in the dispute and opened fire on protesters during the confrontation, leaving at least five people injured.
These claims have not been independently verified.
Washa is regarded as a valuable natural resource in parts of Ghor Province, where many rural families depend on seasonal harvesting activities to supplement their incomes.
The reported detentions have raised concerns among local residents, particularly as families continue to seek information about the fate and whereabouts of those allegedly taken into custody.
Nimruztv has not been able to independently verify the details of these claims.
