Taliban Arrests Russian Anthropologist In Kunduz On Jewellery Smuggling Charges

The Taliban have arrested Russian anthropologist Svyatoslav Kavurin in the northern province of Kunduz and transferred him to Kabul. According to Russian state media, the Russian Embassy is actively following the case.

Kavurin is affiliated with the Institute of Oriental Studies at the Russian Academy of Sciences. Reports indicate that his current whereabouts are unknown.

Prior to his detention, Kavurin reportedly posted a message on his Telegram account stating he had been arrested on suspicion of attempting to smuggle jewellery. He noted that he was intermittently allowed access to his mobile phone.

No further updates have been posted to his Telegram account since the original message, which was shared more than 24 hours ago. Relatives and colleagues have reported no contact with him since Saturday evening.

Russian media have confirmed that diplomatic efforts are under way to clarify the circumstances of his arrest. The Russian Embassy in Kabul stated it is monitoring the situation.