22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Travel
A Nation in Limbo
On May 20, 2022, a police vehicle seized by the Taliban was observed on the road leading to Shah Mazar village in Afghanistan. Shah Mazar has gained attention for producing a significant number of suicide attackers who have been integrated into the Taliban's elite "Badri 313" unit. The Badri 313 Battalion is a special forces unit of the Taliban, known for its better training and equipment compared to regular Taliban fighters. This observation highlights the ongoing security challenges in Afghanistan following the Taliban's takeover in August 2021, as well as the group's efforts to consolidate power and integrate former insurgents into their military structure.
Photo Detail
| Date Taken: | 05.2022 |
| Date Uploaded: | 11.2024 |
| Photo Location: | Shah Mazar, Afghanistan |
| Camera: | Canon EOS 5D Mark III |
| Copyright: | © Christian Werner |