Kandahar, Afghanistan
More than 40 Taliban inmates tunneled out of a high-security prison in the former Taliban stronghold of Kandahar this week. Kandahar Gov. Mohammad Yusof Pashtun said the escape must have been aided by prison officials, five of whom are missing. Digging a 30-yard tunnel, Pashtun said, is “clearly not something you can do in a day or two—it would have taken at least a month.” Mullah Sabir, a Taliban commander, confirmed to reporters that his men paid bribes of $2,000 per prisoner to facilitate the escape. The prisoners had been arrested in the past few months, during fighting with Afghan government forces.
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
-
What are the different types of nuclear weapons?The Explainer Speculation mounts that post-war taboo on nuclear weapons could soon be shattered by use of 'battlefield' missiles
-
Floral afternoon teas to enjoy during the Chelsea Flower ShowThe Week Recommends These are the prettiest spots in the city to savour a traditional treat
-
How to plan a trip along the Mississippi RiverThe Week Recommends See this vital waterway from the Great River Road
