Afghanistan Times
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KABUL – David Lavery, a former Canadian Forces soldier and humanitarian known for aiding in the evacuation of Afghans during the fall of Kabul in 2021, has been arrested by the Taliban, according to Canadian media reports.
CTV National News, citing unnamed sources, reported that Lavery was detained shortly after landing in Kabul on a flight Monday. His current location remains unknown, but sources indicate he is in Taliban custody.
Lavery, who runs Raven Rae Consulting Services, a private security firm, is well-known in Afghanistan as “Canadian Dave.” He gained prominence during the chaotic 2021 evacuation at Hamid Karzai International Airport, where he led efforts to extract individuals with valid Canadian documents. Working under dangerous conditions, Lavery and his team helped dozens escape, guiding evacuees who were instructed to wear red as an identifying marker.
Global Affairs Canada confirmed awareness of Lavery’s detention and stated that Canadian officials are “monitoring the situation closely” while providing consular support. However, the agency declined to comment on whether Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had been briefed on the matter.
Lavery’s arrest has shocked those familiar with his work. A source told CTV that the Taliban likely knew of his presence and humanitarian efforts in the region, making his detention unexpected.
This development underscores the growing risks for foreign nationals in Afghanistan, particularly those who played pivotal roles during the Taliban’s return to power. Lavery’s situation raises pressing questions about their safety and the challenges of international engagement with the current regime.
