Three sources in Baghlan province tell Tanin that Sirajuddin Haqqani, the Taliban’s Interior Minister, has appointed Mohammad Asif, the brother of Mujahid Barkatzi, as the new commander of the Pul-e-Khumri city highway battalion in exchange for eight projects, replacing “Mohammad Ali Kamel.”

According to the sources, Barkatzi will soon implement eight construction projects as per Haqqani’s order.

The sources add that Mohammad Asif previously served as the deputy administrative affairs officer of the security command of the central Baghlan district of Baghlan province.

According to the sources, Mujahid Barkatzi is one of the well-known traders supported by the Taliban group in Baghlan province.

The sources add that this trader provides financial support to the Taliban group in various fields.

According to the sources, the Salang road construction project and the construction of the industrial town of Baghlan province named “Imam Qutayba Baghlani” have been awarded to Barkatzi’s construction company.

The sources add that in addition to Sirajuddin Haqqani, Barkatzi is also supported by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Taliban group’s Deputy Economic Prime Minister.