[AfghanDigest] LAST 24 HOURS
- UN SPECIAL RAPPORTEUR CALLS FOR NEW & INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATION INTO ATROCITIES – Typically, when an independent investigation is called for it signals there is enough evidence to confirm at least a portion of the accusations are valid. Kabul has consistently tried to downplay the reporting and has attempted misdirection through claims of ‘western bias’ in the media. However, it is a tall order to ask the international community to ignore the claims considering there are at least twelve independent videos of mass executions in Panjshir circulating on the internet. All appear to have been filmed by their own fighters (considering the point of view) and give the impression the illegal killings were joyous celebrations. Mr. Bennett’s recommendation sends a clear signal that the acts will be looked into.
- COMMODITIES PRICES FLUCTUATING AS WINTER BEARS DOWN ON AFGHANISTAN – Coal and fuel prices surged this week while propane and firewood prices fell in a sign that the coming winter was going to add a new dimension of hell in Afghanistan. Coal and fuel shot up by nearly 36% this week alone on average while propane and wood dropped by about 30%. Our analysis indicates the fluctuations mean different things for different demographics but mainly, the brunt of the pain would be felt by those living in urban areas.
- KHORASAN RESISTANCE GROUP STANDS UP A MILITARY WING – The Khorasan Warriors announced they had formed an anti-Taliban military group and would immediately commence operations against the de facto regime. The group plans to release its organizing principles in a video clip today on select social media sites. They intend to commence operations immediately but no information was given about the numbers they have in the group. The group claims to be operating in three additional unspecified provinces.
CONFLICT TRACKER
Kandahar: A roadside mine was triggered as a Taliban night security patrol passed the location in the fourth district of Kandahar. One to three Twlib fighters were killed and one to two more were injured.
NEXT 24 HOURS
TWO POTENTIAL COUNTERATTACKS PLANNED BY TALIBAN IN BADAKHSHAN – A source in the Province said Taliban troops staged last night in two separate locations and were planning to hit two to three NRF camps today. The locations of the targeted camps were not provided. Each Taliban contingent is thought to have approximately two hundred fighters and thirty to forty trucks under their command. At-risk Afghans in Badakhshan are encouraged to avoid any concentrations of Taliban security vehicles.
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