HERAT — Taliban intelligence authorities in Herat have reportedly arrested and detained Ghulam Nabi Madther, a civil society activist and university professor, following his reposting of reports about protests by residents in the Jibril area.
According to a close associate quoted by local media, Madther has been in Taliban intelligence custody for approximately 15 days, while his family and associates have received no clear information about his current condition or whereabouts.
The source said Madther was arrested by Taliban intelligence officers in Herat’s Jibril area on August 18. His reported detention has raised concerns among civil society figures and activists, particularly regarding the treatment of individuals who share information about public protests or criticism of the authorities.
Herat has witnessed demonstrations and arrests in recent months. Previous reports said residents of the Jibril area protested against Taliban restrictions, with several participants reportedly detained after security forces dispersed gatherings.
The reported detention also comes amid wider concerns over Taliban intelligence operations in Herat. Previous investigations have documented extensive information-gathering activities by Taliban intelligence and concerns over the monitoring and detention of perceived opponents.
There has been no publicly available statement from Taliban authorities confirming Madther’s arrest or explaining the allegations against him.
