Kevin Cornwell, a British aid worker, says he endured solitary confinement, threats, beatings, and pressure to make a forced confession during his 272 days of detention in Afghanistan.
Cornwell, who was arrested while working with the United Nations in Kabul, said that throughout his detention he was pressured to confess to the allegations brought against him. He also claimed that his health gradually deteriorated in prison due to limited access to medical care.
According to the British aid worker, some of his personal belongings were confiscated during his detention, and he was held under severe restrictions.
Cornwell added that after months of negotiations and a financial payment, arrangements were eventually made for his release, allowing him to leave Afghanistan.
The Taliban have repeatedly denied allegations of mistreatment, torture, or coercion of detainees. They have not yet issued a new response regarding the claims made by Cornwell.
The British citizen’s statements come as human rights organizations have repeatedly called in recent years for greater transparency regarding detention facilities and the treatment of prisoners in Afghanistan.
Writer:Salima Aryaei
