11.2007 - Source: Austrian Centre for Country of Origin and Asylum Research and Documentation

Illegale und willkürliche Verhaftungen, Haftverlängerungen und Folter durch die Polizei sind verbreitet ("11th European Country of Origin Information Seminar; Vienna, 21 - 22 June 2007; Country Report; Afghanistan") [ID 21955]

"Illegal and arbitrary arrest as well as prolonged detention are common. There is no writ of habeas corpus. There are frequent credible reports of torture by police and National
Directorate of Security (NDS). There is no effective oversight of investigation procedures or detention facilities and conditions. People in “opposition” they are likely to be arbitrarily
detained and tortured if returned."

Document(s): Open document

06.03.2007 - Source: US Department of State

According to reports, local authorities in Herat, Helmand, Badakhshan, and other locations continued to routinely torture and abuse detainees ("Country Report on Human Rights Practices 2006") [ID 19509]

"The law prohibits such practices; however, there were reports of abuses. For example, human rights organizations reported that local authorities in Herat, Helmand, Badakhshan, and other locations continued to routinely torture and abuse detainees. Torture and abuse consisted of pulling out fingernails and toenails, burning with hot oil, beatings, sexual humiliation, and sodomy. Violence and instability due to the insurgency hampered relief and reconstruction efforts in different parts of the country and led to numerous human rights abuses. NGOs reported that security forces continued to use excessive force during their fight against Taliban and al-Qa'ida remnants, including looting, beating, and torturing civilians. Reports of abuse by local commanders continued in Faryab. Villagers in Kata Kala reported local commanders imprisoned and tortured them for 15 days to extort money. Some were beaten and others were locked in dark rooms for hours. Victims were also repeatedly threatened with death if they did not cooperate."

Document(s): Open document