Former senior Taliban official Mullah Mutasim Agha Jan reportedly detained in Afghanistan’s southern Kandahar province. Local sources claim the arrest occurred five days ago by the Taliban’s intelligence agency.
A report from Kabul Tribune stated that Agha Jan was accused of attempting to establish a platform for religious scholars from both countries, aimed at easing tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Sources close to Agha Jan confirmed several clerics had been brought together under this platform, with ceasefire statements issued between Islamabad and Afghan Taliban authorities.
The detained official reportedly worked on a $10 million project before his arrest, including the establishment of a religious seminary. No confirmation from Taliban authorities or comments from family members have been made regarding these claims.
Afghan journalist Bilal Sarwary alleged that the arrest was ordered by the Taliban’s supreme leader and carried out by a special unit responsible for the leader’s security, described as a “dead squad.” Agha Jan previously served as chief of staff and finance minister under Mullah Omar.