In northeast Afghanistan, 19 people have been publicly flogged for adultery, theft and running away from home. A statement from the country's Supreme Court stressed the Taliban's intention to adhere to a strict interpretation of Islamic law, or Shariah, the AP reports.

It marked the first official confirmation that flogging has been used in Afghanistan since the Taliban seized power in August 2021.

During their previous rule in the late 1990s, the Taliban carried out public executions, flogging and stoning of those convicted of crimes.

After they took over Afghanistan last year, the Taliban initially promised to be more moderate and consider the rights of women and minorities. Instead, they have restricted rights and freedoms, including a ban on girls' education after the sixth grade.