How much money does the Taliban have? While it’s (understandably) difficult to get a clear picture of a terrorist group’s finances, we have the means to make educated guesses about the Taliban’s financial situation. One of these is gathering financial information from the Taliban itself through financial documents, captured operatives, and pocket litter. Through these three methods, we can estimate they likely earn more than 5 million USD yearly — the amount they pay their fighters annually. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
