Taliban Ministry of Interior tenders laptop for criminal department at $38,404

Afghanistan International reviewed the results of a tender from the Taliban Ministry of Interior, which plans to purchase a laptop for its Criminal Department at 2,310,000 Afghanis, equivalent to $38,404.

The ministry did not specify the laptop's model or associated computer tools. An announcement published on Monday, 4 Hoot (February 24, 2026), on the X page of the Kabul Security Command stated that the project for these items is awarded to three companies: Sahil Yaser, Hasmat Muslim, and Aghaaz Noween. The announcement added that individuals or entities with objections can submit them to the ministry's Procurement Department within three days.

A source in Kabul's computer market told Afghanistan International that the most expensive laptop available in the capital costs around $5,800, specifically the MSI Titan 18 HX model. Globally, forensic laptops used for crime scene investigations and related technology, such as the Forensik Laptop, have a base price of $7,724 and include tools like UltraKit, write blockers, forensic card readers, and accessories, but none reach tens of thousands of dollars. Documents on similar forensic tools indicate that software licenses, such as the annual UFED 4PC Ultimate subscription from Cellebrite at $6,450, can form a significant portion of costs.

The tender results also allocate 2,780,000 Afghanis for two photocopiers and their toners, and 3,860,000 Afghanis for five computer items for the Criminal Technique Department. No details on models, brands, specifications, or quantities were provided for these items, limiting precise market comparisons.