By Ashrafuddin Pirzada
LANDIKOTAL: The Torkham border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan was closed once again early Friday morning following a late-night firing incident from the Afghan side, official sources confirmed.
According to government officials, the Torkham border crossing recently reopened after nearly six months had to be shut within hours due to deteriorating security conditions. The road leading to the border remained deserted as all movement had been suspended.
Security sources said that the closure followed an exchange of fire triggered by sniper activity from across the Afghan side. A Frontier Corps (FC) Subedar was injured after being hit by a sniper shot at a Pakistani check post.
Unconfirmed reports further suggested that at least two additional individuals on the Pakistani side sustained injuries due to firing by Afghan forces. However, officials have not yet independently verified these claims.
The border had only been partially reopened on March 26, allowing the repatriation of Afghan families returning to Afghanistan. Authorities emphasized that no trade or pedestrian movement had resumed, as restrictions remained in place.
Officials said the Torkham border crossing has witnessed prolonged closures in recent months. It had remained shut since February 24, following intense clashes between Pakistani and Afghan forces.
Moreover, cross-border trade and routine pedestrian movement have been largely suspended since October 12, 2025, severely affecting local businesses and daily wage earners.
Security forces have tightened measures in the area, and authorities say the situation was being closely monitored. No timeline has yet been provided for reopening the border.
