Taliban forces in Ghazni province have arrested 14 individuals — including a number of children — on accusations of selling human hair and alleged theft. The arrests were carried out by the Taliban’s Highway Guards on the Kabul-Kandahar highway, according to a statement issued by the Ghazni Police Headquarter, which is now under Taliban control.
The detainees, said to be residents of Behsud district in Nangarhar province, were shown in a widely circulated photo facing a wall, with bags and piles of what appear to be cut human hair displayed in front of them. Most of those arrested appear to be minors.
The Taliban claimed the group had been involved in collecting and selling women’s hair — a practice they deem forbidden “out of respect for human dignity.” They further alleged that the individuals, especially the children, were involved in theft while moving between neighborhoods. These claims, however, were not supported by any public evidence, and no formal charges have been announced.
The detainees were transferred to the Ghazni Anti-Crime Directorate, with no mention of legal proceedings, representation, or protections for the minors involved.
Human rights advocates condemned the arrests, particularly the involvement of minors, and accused the Taliban of using fear and punishment as tools of control.
“This case once again highlights the repressive measures employed by the Taliban, who continue to rule through fear, targeting vulnerable communities, and violating international norms regarding the treatment of minors,” said a Kabul-based child rights activist who asked to remain anonymous for security reasons.
