The family of Murteza Samadi, a photojournalist who was detained in Herat province, called on the Taliban to release him from detention.

Freelance photojournalist Murteza Samadi was detained by the Taliban about three weeks ago in western Herat province while covering a women's protest held in front of the governor’s office.

“We ask the Islamic Emirate to release Murtaza Samadi and remove our family’s tension and worries,” said Ali Samadi, the pbotojournalist's brother.

At the same time, officials of the Islamic Emirate in Herat province said that he will be released in the coming days.

“Murtaza is an ordinary person who was taking photos with his private camera. His documents were sent to the directorate of security, and he will be released after some days,” said Deputy Governor of Herat Shir Ahmad Amar Mahajar.

Civil society activists, meanwhile, asked the Islamic Emirate to release Murtaza Samadi. “Murtaza has committed no crime. He should be released," said Hasan Hakimi, a civil society activist.

Murtaza Samadi is a freelance photojournalist who mostly focuses on social issues.