Afghan loses refugee appeal

A MAN who sought refugee status on grounds he feared persecution if returned to his homeland because he had revealed information…

A MAN who sought refugee status on grounds he feared persecution if returned to his homeland because he had revealed information while being tortured by the Taliban has lost his legal challenge to the rejection of his application.

The man, from Afghanistan, claimed he had acted under duress as an informer to the Taliban and revealed the names of mujahideen fighters opposed to the Taliban and pointed out their weapons stores.

He came to Ireland after being advised by a relative in the security forces to leave Afghanistan because a warrant had been issued for his arrest. His bid for refugee status was later refused.

Mr Justice Éamon de Valera yesterday dismissed his challenge after finding there was “a clear basis” for findings and inferences drawn him by the tribunal.