By Ashrafuddin Pirzada
TORKHAM: An exchange of fire between Pakistani and Afghan security forces entered its third consecutive day on Thursday along multiple points of the Pak-Afghan border in Landikotal, official sources said.
Officials confirmed that clashes continued near the Torkham border crossing, where both sides reportedly targeted each other’s bunkers. Afghan authorities vacated certain forward positions and shifted cargo trucks away from the main crossing point as a precautionary measure.
The firing also took place in the areas of Waragha Sar, Maro Sar, near the Torkham border and Shah Kot Sar, which fall within the jurisdiction of Zakhakhel police station in Landikotal. According to local sources, both heavy and light weapons were used during the crossfire, causing fear and uncertainty among residents living close to the border belt.
Authorities said no casualties have been reported so far from either side. However, residents of nearby villages have been advised to remain indoors, while movement in sensitive bordering areas has been restricted. Security forces remain on high alert to prevent any further escalation.
Officials have yet to issue a detailed statement explaining the trigger for the latest clashes.
Tensions along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border have witnessed periodic flare-ups in recent months, particularly in the border regions of Khyber district. Disputes over border management, fencing and allegations of cross-border militant movement have repeatedly strained relations between the two neighbouring countries, often disrupting trade and pedestrian movement.
It is worth mentioning that the Torkham border crossing was closed on October 11 last year following a similar exchange of fire that resulted in casualties on both sides. Despite the closure, stranded Pakistani nationals and empty trucks were allowed to re-enter Pakistan, while Afghan families returning from Pakistan were permitted to cross into Afghanistan on humanitarian grounds.
