Taliban-led Afghan government reports major progress in war on drugs

KABUL, Afghanistan (MNTV) — The Taliban-led Afghan government has outlined sweeping achievements in its campaign against narcotics, marking the International Day Against Drug Abuse with a renewed appeal for international cooperation.

Speaking to media on June 26, the Ministry of Interior reported that over the past four years, 98,000 counter-narcotics operations have been conducted, more than 20,000 drug production facilities have been destroyed, and over 38,000 acres of illicit cultivation cleared. 

Authorities also confirmed the arrest of 28,000 traffickers, the seizure of 8,500 tons of narcotics, and the collection of 150,000 addicts.

Tolo News quoted ministry spokesperson Abdul Matin Qani as saying that Afghanistan’s anti-drug efforts began even before the official decree by Taliban leadership, reflecting a long-standing commitment to eradicating narcotics from the country.

“In all our meetings, one key point is always noted: there should be cooperation with us,” Qani said. “Unfortunately, no such cooperation has occurred. The Afghan nation must realize that billions of dollars are spent on fighting narcotics, collecting and treating addicts. This is a hallmark of a responsible system that funds its own efforts.”

Qani also criticized the absence of meaningful engagement from international institutions, particularly in areas of treatment and rehabilitation. Despite Afghanistan’s decisive action, global health and aid organizations have largely remained noncommittal in offering support.

Deputy Minister for Counter-Narcotics Abdul Rahman Qasemi said that over 140,000 addicts have received treatment and returned to their families. The Ministry of Public Health, which has established 20 new treatment centers, emphasized the urgent need for external support to expand its capacity.

Acting Minister Noor Jalal Jalali stated, “Our request to the international community is to assist in the treatment of addicts, as this humanitarian service is unparalleled in any other area.”

Representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), while recognizing ongoing efforts, warned about the growing challenge of synthetic drug use in the region. They pledged continued support, especially in terms of rehabilitation and reintegration services.

“There are significant challenges in providing follow-up care and social reintegration, which need urgent attention,” said WHO’s Abdul Qudoos Saadat.

UNODC’s Nasim Bawar added that since August 2023, several treatment centers across provinces, including Kabul, have come under the organization’s support in coordination with Afghan authorities.

According to official figures, more than five million Afghans struggle with drug addiction, making it one of the most urgent public health issues in the country — one that the current government says it is tackling head-on, despite limited global recognition.