British YouTuber Joe Fazer, famous for his fitness and lifestyle vlogs, traveled to Kabul to show the “real face” of Afghanistan. What was meant to be a bold adventure turned into a stressful ordeal that lasted only 3 hours.
Joe and his cameraman Jack flew from Istanbul, hoping to explore the city. At first, things seemed smooth: airport staff stamped their passports, locals greeted them warmly, and even a Taliban security officer welcomed them.
But the mood shifted suddenly when they visited a mosque. Officials noticed Joe’s microphone and questioned him, asking if he had a journalist visa. Joe only had a tourist visa. Their camera was covered, passports taken, and tense photos were clicked.
Their guide explained that recently, two foreign YouTubers had been arrested for filming without permission and that the Afghan authorities now view filming tourists as potential spies.
Later, at a park, more officials stopped them and seemed to start an investigation. Realizing the risk, Joe and Jack quickly decided to leave. They booked the next flight and departed the next day, ending their entire Kabul trip in just three hours.
This shocking experience highlights the strict rules for foreigners filming in Afghanistan and the unpredictable risks travelers may face.