KABUL — Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid has confirmed that Juma Khan Fateh, the former district chief and intelligence commander of Nasi district in Badakhshan, will be handed over to the group’s judicial and legal authorities for trial.
Speaking to Afghanistan International, Mujahid said a case file containing allegations against Fateh is currently being prepared and that further details will be made public soon.
According to Mujahid, Taliban forces have also seized a large quantity of weapons from Fateh’s residence and from his supporters. He said the authorities are compiling information regarding allegations of torture, theft, usurpation and robbery allegedly committed against residents of the district.
The announcement follows recent clashes between Taliban forces and fighters loyal to Fateh in Nasi district. Recent reports said Taliban forces moved to disarm Fateh’s men, leading to several days of fighting and Taliban airstrikes against positions linked to him.
The Taliban’s decision to pursue legal action against Fateh marks a significant development in the dispute and could provide further details about the group’s allegations against the former commander.
Fateh’s case has also drawn attention amid broader tensions between the Taliban and former commanders or factions that have challenged the group’s authority in Badakhshan.