Taliban threaten former Afghan police worker after MoD leak reveals identity

A former Afghan police worker is living in constant fear after receiving threats from the Taliban, following the accidental disclosure of his identity by a UK Ministry of Defence leak. The man, identified as Hamid*, served in the Afghan national police special unit and received commendations for his "dedication, unparalleled service and leadership" from senior British figures.

Despite his loyal service, the UK has refused his application for resettlement. His details were among those of 18,700 Afghans who had worked with or for the British government, exposed in an accidental data leak in 2022. This breach has placed individuals like Hamid at significant risk of retaliation from the Taliban, who have a history of targeting those who collaborated with foreign forces.

The situation highlights the precarious position of Afghans who aided British efforts and are now seeking safety abroad. The refusal of resettlement applications, coupled with the exposure of their identities, leaves them vulnerable to persecution. Hamid's case underscores the ongoing challenges and dangers faced by individuals caught in the aftermath of the UK's withdrawal from Afghanistan.

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dedication, unparalleled service and leadership