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Tensions have remained high at the Torkham border in recent days following clashes between Pakistani and Afghan forces. The busy crossing point in Khyber district has witnessed exchanges of fire and growing security concerns along the frontier.
Amid these tensions, a body was found lying near Zero Point at the border. In an effort to resolve the situation peacefully, a jirga delegation made up of tribal elders from both Pakistan and Afghanistan arrived at the site. The purpose of the meeting was to retrieve the body and confirm the identity of the deceased so it could be handed over to the proper authorities.
To allow the elders to hold discussions, a temporary ceasefire was observed at the border until around 5:30 PM. This pause in firing gave the jirga members time to examine the situation and try to reach an agreement.
According to sources, the body was later identified as that of an Afghan citizen. He was reportedly a laborer and was said to be mentally unstable. The body had been lying at the border since tensions escalated in the area.
However, the talks did not lead to a final solution. Members of the Landi Kotal jirga said the Afghan delegation told them they needed permission from Taliban authorities before retrieving the body. As a result, the Pakistani jirga delegation returned without resolving the matter.
Soon after the jirga left, local sources said heavy weapons fire resumed at the Torkham border. The body still remains at the border location as the situation continues to unfold.
