The Canadian government has issued a strong warning urging its citizens not to travel to Afghanistan, saying the security situation remains highly volatile and dangerous.
In its latest travel advisory, Canada said people already in Afghanistan should exercise caution if they need to move to a safer location and should review their personal security plans.
The Canadian government also warned that foreign nationals and people with links to Western countries face risks of kidnapping and violence by terrorist groups, as well as a heightened risk of arbitrary detention by Taliban authorities.
It said the risk is particularly high for people who had links to the former Afghan government or who are seen as having violated Taliban rules.
According to the advisory, Taliban authorities may accuse foreign nationals, including dual Afghan and foreign citizens, of espionage.
Humanitarian workers and journalists are among those whose activities and movements may be monitored, the advisory said.
Canada warned that people who come under suspicion from Taliban authorities may have their passports confiscated and could be arbitrarily detained for extended periods.
The advisory also said Canadian citizens have previously been detained in Afghanistan and, in some cases, denied access to Canadian consular officials, family members or lawyers.
In another section, the Canadian government said the terrorist threat remains present across Afghanistan, including Kabul and other major cities, and that attacks could occur at any time.
The advisory said terrorist groups remain active in Afghanistan and may target foreigners, security and defence personnel, NGO workers, journalists and media staff, health workers and other civilians.
Canada also warned that criminal groups carrying out kidnappings for ransom may sell hostages to terrorist organisations, potentially leaving victims in captivity for years.
According to the advisory, terrorist and criminal groups may establish fake checkpoints and roadblocks to carry out robberies, kidnappings or other violent attacks.
The Canadian government also warned against travel to tourist and remote areas of Afghanistan, saying that even organised tours run by reputable companies do not eliminate the risks.
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