Taliban leader Haibatullah Akhunzada issued a warning on 4 November saying that “unknown” individuals among the ranks of the armed group are “working against the will of the government.”

The warning came via a statement circulated across the Taliban’s various social media accounts.

Since their victory against the US-backed Afghan government three months ago, the Taliban has expanded its recruitment as it works to bolster its numbers in order to maintain peace and stability across the nation.

However, Taliban leaders have previously warned that “impostors and criminals” are trying to join the group in an effort to damage its image.

Back in September, interim Defense Minister Mullah Mohammad Yaqoob spoke about these concerns, saying: “There are some bad and corrupt people who want to join us … to fulfil their own interests or to defame us and make us look bad.”

The son of Taliban founder Mullah Mohammad Omar went on to say that any rogue elements would be dealt with.

In recent months, Afghanistan’s interim leaders have been face with increased terror attacks by ISIS fighters operating in the country.  Just days ago, the terror group took responsibility for a suicide bombing outside a military hospital in central Kabul which left at least 20 dead and dozens more injured.

The increasingly common terror attacks are being described as an attempt by ISIS to sow chaos in the country just as the Taliban looks to attain recognition from the international community as Afghanistan’s official rulers.

Recent reports also point to ISIS gaining strength in the country as former members of a US-sponsored shadow army have been joining its ranks after being abandoned by Washington following the chaotic withdrawal of US troops.