The Taliban’s Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice says at least 54 people were arrested across different provinces during the month of Sawr on accusations related to “witchcraft.”
In a statement released Saturday, the ministry said those detained were later handed over to Taliban judicial authorities after preliminary investigations.
Taliban officials claimed the arrests were carried out to prevent what they described as “superstitious activities” and to help establish an “Islamic society.”
According to the ministry, the detained individuals were allegedly involved in creating family disputes through acts described as witchcraft.
The Taliban did not clearly define what constitutes witchcraft, although authorities have previously arrested individuals involved in writing amulets and spiritual charms.
Taliban morality police, known as muhtasibs, regularly conduct patrols across Afghanistan to monitor public behavior, clothing, and social activities.
Under the Taliban’s morality law approved in September 2024, morality officers were granted broad powers, including authority to detain individuals accused of violating the group’s religious regulations.
Human rights organizations have repeatedly expressed concern over the expanding powers of Taliban morality enforcement bodies and the growing restrictions imposed on personal freedoms in Afghanistan.
