Sources in Afghanistan’s Kandahar province report that Taliban “virtue” authorities have intensified monitoring of men’s appearance and public conduct, with multiple individuals detained during recent inspections across markets, roads, and residential areas.
According to residents, enforcement personnel have been stopping young men on a daily basis to check beard length, clothing, and general appearance, with those considered non-compliant taken for questioning or detention.
Sources said the checks are not limited to individuals on foot, as vehicles carrying families have also been stopped at various points, with passengers reportedly questioned about personal appearance and adherence to prescribed norms.
Several residents described the enforcement approach as increasingly intrusive, saying that individuals have faced prolonged questioning and pressure during such encounters. Some claimed that the treatment has involved humiliation and verbal intimidation.
A shopkeeper from Kandahar said enforcement actions have created growing unease among civilians, arguing that any regulatory concerns should be addressed without detention or coercion.
Local accounts suggest that similar enforcement patterns have been reported in other provinces, including Helmand, where individuals have previously been detained over grooming-related issues.
Taliban authorities have not issued detailed comments on the latest reports.
The developments come amid broader reports of public discontent and isolated demonstrations in parts of Afghanistan, including Herat, although independent verification of these events remains limited.
Officials maintain that their enforcement policies are aimed at maintaining public order in line with their interpretation of Islamic governance.
Further details are awaited as local reports continue to emerge from different parts of the country.
