UK deportations to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan spark concerns

Foreign offenders deported despite safety risks and lack of diplomatic relations

LONDON (MNTV) – The U.K. has deported at least eight foreign offenders to Afghanistan since the Taliban seized power in August 2021, including one individual serving a sentence of less than six months, records obtained by Hyphen reveal.

Among the deported were individuals convicted of minor crimes like theft and assault, as well as more serious offences, including rape and violence. 

At least one individual had been serving an indeterminate sentence without a release date. 

According to Hyphen, The Home Office refused to disclose specific details about the crimes or offenders to prevent identification.

The deportations occurred during a period when the U.K. government, lacking diplomatic relations with Afghanistan, had warned against all travel to the country. 

One deportation took place just days before the chaotic evacuation of U.K. nationals and allies during the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021.

Human rights groups argue these deportations are unsafe, especially for individuals sent to a country experiencing severe political instability and human rights violations. 

Advocacy groups highlight that some deportees may have grown up in the U.K. or faced barriers in proving their British nationality, including asylum seekers and trafficking victims.

The Home Office classifies these as “compliant returns,” often involving individuals who are encouraged to leave voluntarily to avoid forced deportation. 

Those who comply can receive a resettlement grant of up to £1,500 and early release of up to 18 months.

While deportations to Afghanistan were officially suspended in 2021, these cases raise questions about whether it is standard practice to send offenders to countries with no diplomatic relations.