KANDAHAR — Taliban are reportedly receiving hundreds of thousands of dollars each month from a group of Arab nationals who have established a fortified compound in the desert between Spin Boldak and Takhtapul districts in the southern province of Kandahar, local sources say.
The individuals, believed to be from Gulf countries, were granted permission to reside in the area under what sources describe as a private arrangement with the Taliban governor in Kandahar, who is a close aide to Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada. In return, they are said to pay substantial sums in exchange for exclusive access to a remote stretch of land near the Pakistan border, sources said.
While the group claims to be in the region for hunting, residents say the terrain is barren and not known for wildlife at any time of year, sources said. “There is nothing to hunt here,” one local said.
According to the sources, the camp is heavily secured and equipped with modern facilities. Movements in and out are discreet and accompanied by armed guards, adding to public speculation about the true nature of the compound.
Taliban have not commented publicly on the matter. The purpose of the group’s presence remains unclear, but the secrecy surrounding the arrangement has raised questions about the potential use of the site and the nature of the financial ties.
