Taliban seize ex-commander after joining peace process

MAIMANA (Pajhwok): The Taliban have detained their former commander who recently joined the peace process in northwestern Faryab province, an official said on Monday.

Gulbadin, who had joined with the government-initiated reconciliationcampaign in Almar district, has been captured by the militants, the official told Pajhwok Afghan News on condition of anonymity.

Following his surrender, Gulbadin joined the police force, securing the Maimana-Almar highway, according to the official.

But Hanif Bai, highway police commander, denied the ex-commander had rejoined the rebels. He said Gulbadin was besieged in Mirishkar area and seized nythe Taliban.

On the other hand, a provincial council member, Abdul Manan Qate, said Gulbadin had joined his father, also a Taliban commander in Almar district.

Qaterecalled Gulbadin had joined the peace process along with 10 other militants in Almar district five months ago.

Ansarul Haq Faryabi,a Taliban leader, wrote on his Facebook account they had captured two intelligence agents in Almar. Faryabi said a Kalashnikov was also seized from the detainees.

mds/mud

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