The Taliban leader has banned fibre optic internet in Afghanistan's Balkh province to “prevent immorality,” according to a spokesman for the administration. This is the first ban of its kind since the Taliban took power in August 2021. Government offices, the private sector, public institutions, and homes in the northern province now lack WIFI internet, though mobile internet remains functional. On Tuesday, a provincial government spokesman said the leader ordered the "complete ban." He mentioned an alternative would be developed, but provided no further details. Afghan authorities sometimes suspend mobile networks for security reasons during religious festivals.