Officers from the Taliban’s Ministry for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice in Kabul temporarily closed several hotels in the Pul-e-Sokhta area on Friday, October 24, citing non-compliance with religious directives during Friday prayers, local sources told Afghanistan Women’s Voice.
Witnesses reported that around 12:30 p.m., officers from the ministry entered hotels and Teahouse, ordering them to close for several hours during the prayer. Guests were reportedly forced to leave and instructed to attend Friday prayers.
Taliban members told hotel owners that they had ignored repeated warnings and warned that further violations would result in fines or imprisonment. According to sources, the closures lasted between one and one and a half hours, with Taliban members blocking public access during that period.
These restrictions reflect a growing pattern under Taliban rule, disrupting public life and placing citizens under increasing psychological pressure. Since returning to power in 2021, the group has tightened its control over public spaces, enforcing strict interpretations of Islamic law and curbing freedoms, particularly for women.
