On May 29, 2015, Taliban forces abducted a member of the education department in Charsada District, Ghor Province. Later that same day, members of a pro-government armed group responded by abducting eighteen civilians whom they believed to be affiliated with the Taliban. The abductions by the pro-government forces appeared to be conducted in an effort to secure the release of the education department member. Through the mediation of local elders, both sides released their respective hostages on May 31, 2015.