HERAT: Taliban authorities deployed heavily armed security personnel across Herat on Friday, forcing residents to abandon planned demonstrations after morality police arrested at least 30 women over alleged dress code violations and violently dispersed a protest earlier this week, leaving at least two people dead.
According to independent experts, Taliban forces allegedly opened fire on men, women and children during Tuesdayâs protest and beat several participants. Among the fatalities was a young boy, while more than 20 people were reported injured.
Local police denied using weapons and claimed the demonstrators were attempting âto disturb public order.â
The Taliban, who govern Afghanistan under a strict interpretation of Islamic law, require women to be almost completely covered in public. Their regulations mandate garments such as the burqa or chador, along with face coverings, measures widely regarded as among the most restrictive in the Muslim world.
Following social media calls for renewed demonstrations after Friday prayers, authorities intensified security throughout Herat. Military vehicles were positioned across the city, armed officers patrolled on motorcycles, and additional checkpoints were established by police and intelligence personnel.
âPeople gave up on the demonstration today to prevent more bloodshed,â said a 34-year-old teacher. âEven the movement of a small number of people from one area became difficult due to these security measures. The atmosphere is very bad.â
A 27-year-old resident described the security deployment as overwhelming.
âOn every street there is a suspicious private car with (people wearing) casual clothing, sitting in their cars and observing people,â the resident said.
The arrests, first documented by the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), reportedly targeted women accused of violating rules prohibiting perfume and requiring strict face coverings.
Among those detained was a hospital worker employed by Doctors Without Borders (MSF), who was held for two days. MSF condemned the detention, saying the woman, her husband and relatives were required to sign a written pledge to comply with clothing regulations before her release.
The crackdown has heightened anxiety among women and girls nationwide. UN Women warned that arbitrary detentions could have lasting social consequences.
âA womanâs detention in Afghanistan carries enormous stigma, which can put women at risk of further violence and isolation in their families and communities even after they are released,â said Georgette Gagnon, the UN deputy special representative leading UNAMA.
Experts appointed by the UN Human Rights Council also voiced concern over reports of excessive force by Taliban authorities.
On Wednesday, Heratâs Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice issued new directives requiring women to wear face masks and socks, while banning makeup and any visible hair. The notice warned that violations could lead to âdetention and imprisonment.â
Women in Afghanistan already face extensive restrictions, including bans from parks, gyms and many public spaces, while girls are prohibited from attending school beyond the age of 12.
