Abuse and Torture in Taliban-Run Badakhshan Prison
Exclusive Report by R.M. Media
Information obtained by R.M. Media indicates that detainees in Badakhshan provincial prison are facing widespread and systematic human rights violations. Physical violence, psychological pressure, economic exploitation, and restricted contact with family are common. Complaints by prisoners or their families are routinely ignored or punished.
According to reliable sources, prison staff frequently enter detainees’ cells at night and beat them, often targeting the head. These assaults are intended to prevent sleep and rest.
Detainees are also subjected to severe psychological and physical pressures. Punishments are arbitrary and include handcuffing prisoners or forcing them to stand on snow in freezing conditions. There is no formal legal process for any disciplinary action.
Based on R.M. Media’s exclusive reporting, prisoners are required to purchase basic necessities from a canteen owned by prison officials. Prices are extremely high, placing severe financial pressure on both detainees and their families.
Sources report that some staff distribute narcotics within the prison and deliberately make detainees dependent on drugs. This practice is reportedly normalized and widespread.
Most prison personnel come from a single village and belong to one extended family, with key positions held by family members. Identified individuals include: Dur Mohammad, Director of Badakhshan Prison; Baz Mohammad, Head of Prison Investigation; Baz Mohammad’s father, Director of the Women’s Prison; Baz Mohammad’s sister, Deputy Director of the Women’s Prison; one brother of Baz Mohammad as windows section commander; and another brother as gate commander.
Detainees report that the most severe abuse comes from Baz Mohammad and his deputy, Sadruddin.
Despite widespread dissatisfaction, prisoners are unable to file complaints due to fear of retaliation. Families who have attempted to intervene have faced threats or punishment. Visits from family members are sometimes denied as a form of pressure. Prior to inspections, detainees are warned to conceal the prison’s conditions.
Previous reporting by R.M. Media shows that Taliban-run prisons routinely subject detainees to torture, prolonged detention without trial, deprivation of basic facilities, and severe psychological pressure. Similar conditions were documented in Kunduz prison, where detainees faced abuse and even suicide. Independent sources corroborate these reports, despite official denials.
