Taliban releases two UN staff detained in Herat

Two men who had been detained in the western Afghan city of Herat on August 9 were released early Thursday morning. The individuals were taken into custody by local security forces earlier in the month, but the specific charges or circumstances that led to their arrest were not disclosed by authorities.

Herat officials confirmed that the men were freed after a review of the case, and they were escorted to a police station before being allowed to depart. The release came amid ongoing efforts by Afghan authorities to address concerns about the treatment of detainees and to ensure that detentions are conducted in accordance with national legal procedures.

The incident highlights the continuing scrutiny of detention practices in Afghanistan, with officials emphasizing that any release is subject to legal review and that the rights of detainees remain a priority in the region’s security operations.