Afghanistan Times
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KABUL – Reports claim that Taliban forces have intensified attacks on Afghan interpreters and others who supported the UK during its military presence, following a major data breach by the British government. A lost secret database exposed personal details of nearly 100,000 Afghans, putting many at serious risk of reprisals. But the Taliban have denied they are in pursuit of those people.
The breach, kept hidden for two years under a government injunction, revealed names and contact information of thousands who sought protection through the UK’s Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP). Since the information surfaced, multiple killings of former Afghan soldiers and interpreters linked to the UK have been reported in Kabul and other cities.
One recent victim was shot in Kabul’s alleys, sparking fears of an ongoing targeted campaign by Taliban factions. The families of those on the list face growing uncertainty and danger amid concerns that the militant government may be using the leaked data to identify and punish former allies of international forces.
Legal experts in the UK warn of potential compensation claims running into billions, while Afghan human rights advocates call for urgent international attention to protect those endangered.
The UK Ministry of Defence acknowledged the breach but says it is taking steps to address the fallout, though questions remain about how such sensitive information was mishandled and why the public was kept in the dark for so long.
The situation highlights the continuing risks for thousands of Afghans who assisted foreign forces and now face grave threats under Taliban rule, underscoring ongoing fears for their safety and futures.
