Shocking Hazing In Kabul

Warning: the images of alleged hazing practices at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan contain graphic material.

On August 4, rockets land near the U.S. Embassy in Kabul. On August 15, a suicide bomber hits close by killing or wounding 98. The attacks punctuate the dangers faced by hundreds of American diplomats and staff who work there. Yet some of the Embassy's own security guards are alleging shocking work conditions that put American lives at risk.

Fifteen guards have brought their concerns about embassy security to watchdog group Project on Government Oversight.

In numerous emails, the guards describe a crisis in discipline and morale, understaffing, sleep deprivation, "threats and intimidation." One guard refers to a group of ArmorGroup guards and supervisors as "sexual predators, deviants running rampant."

Guards have recounted a climate of fear and coercion where those who refuse to participate are retaliated against, even fired.

Records show the State Department has warned the ArmorGroup about security problems for at least two years, yet renewed its contract as recently as July.