KABUL – The Taliban have entered a key city in western Afghanistan as they continue a rapid advance before the North Atlantic Treaty Organization troops leave.
All government officials in Qala-e-Naw in Badghis province moved to a nearby army base, according to the local governor.
He said the militants were moving “towards the center of the city” and there was heavy fighting with government troops.
The Taliban gains come as the United States, United Kingdom, and allies withdraw after 20 years.
The vast majority of remaining foreign forces in Afghanistan have left ahead of September 11deadline, leaving the Afghan military in charge of security on their own.
Local sources said the Taliban moved on the prison in Qala-e-Naw and freed about 400 inmates, including more than 100 of the group’s fighters.
Afghan forces guarding the prison are reported to have surrendered without a fight.(BBC)
