Taliban Ban Night-Time Use Of Smartphones In Spin Boldak
Taliban authorities in Spin Boldak district of Kandahar have banned residents from using smartphones after dark, locals said Thursday.
Taliban authorities in Spin Boldak district of Kandahar have banned residents from using smartphones after dark, locals said Thursday.
Residents told Afghanistan International that the order was issued without prior warning. They said Taliban members now confiscate smartphones from anyone found carrying one outside their home after sunset.
Asadullah, a resident, said two Taliban members seized his phone and told him to report to their command office the next day. “Since then, I have had no news of my phone. They keep telling me to go to intelligence or the district office,” he said.
Another resident said his phone was confiscated three days ago with a promise of return, but he has received no response. Residents reported that Taliban members not only seize devices but also demand passwords to check photos, conversations and personal documents.
Locals described the practice as a violation of privacy and personal rights. They said few phones have been returned, while most remain missing.
The restriction adds to a series of Taliban-imposed bans, including on music, women’s education and work, public gatherings, and high-speed internet.
