Key facts
- Two UN staff members detained in Afghanistan on August 9 have been released.
- The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) confirmed the release.
- The staff members were detained in the western city of Herat.
- The reasons for their detention remain unclear.
- The released staff members are reported to be in good health.
Two United Nations staff members who were detained in Afghanistan on August 9 have been released, UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric announced on Thursday. The two Afghan staff members of the UN's Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) were detained in the western city of Herat. Dujarric stated that the circumstances of their detention and the accusations against them remain unclear. He expressed delight at their release and confirmed they are in good health and face no further judicial issues. UNAMA's mandate includes human rights monitoring and data gathering, and the Taliban have previously criticized its reports. The detentions occurred shortly before the Taliban marked the fifth anniversary of their return to power. The UN is continuing to follow up with authorities to ensure respect for UN privileges and immunities, as well as the safety and freedom of movement of its personnel.