The Lawfare Podcast Lawfare Archive: Lynzy Billing on Afghanistan's Zero Unit Night Raids
Dec 7, 2025
Investigative journalist Lynzy Billing dives into her harrowing multi-year investigation of Afghanistan's CIA-backed Zero Units, exposing the brutal realities of night raids. She shares her personal journey, sparked by a family tragedy that led her to uncover the units’ shady operations and their tragic impact on civilians. Billing recounts shocking eyewitness accounts and the emotional toll on families left without accountability. With at least 452 civilian deaths attributed to one Zero Unit, she highlights the urgent need for reform and accountability amidst ongoing secrecy.
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Student Left Traumatised After Raid
- Billing described meeting Bahtur, a 22-year-old whose two brothers were killed by the O2 Zero Unit, leaving him traumatized and alone.
- She noted survivors' ongoing fear, nightmares, and how wrongful raids alienated citizens from the Afghan government.
Secrecy Created An Accountability Vacuum
- Families repeatedly told Billing officials dismissed raids as mistakes and blamed Zero Unit autonomy for lack of accountability.
- Women eyewitnesses were often excluded from official tallies and public reckoning.
On‑the‑Ground Forensics And Site Visits
- Billing partnered with forensic pathologist Muhammad to gather government records, hospital logs, and satellite imagery to verify raid sites and casualties.
- They visited over 30 sites and found bullet-pocked houses and gaps in official counts.