Hundreds of protesters gather in Spin Boldak (Kandahar province) August 6
Category: Transportation
Severity: 3 (Moderate)
Source: Drum Cussac
08/07/2020 (Afghanistan) - Hundreds of protesters staged a demonstration on Thursday, August 6, in Spin Boldak (Kandahar province) to condemn a recent fatal incident at the Chaman border crossing (Balochistan province; Pakistan) between Afghanistan and Pakistan. On July 30, clashes broke out at the border crossing between Spin Boldak and Chaman and escalated resulting in Pakistani forces firing shells into Afghan territory which hit civilian targets. Officials on both sides of the border reported multiple fatalities and dozens of injuries. Media sources report that Afghan and Pakistani officials met on August 6, in efforts to prevent such incidents occurring in the future.
Further associated demonstrations and localized disruptions are possible in the area in the near term. Tensions along the border are expected to remain high and further clashes cannot be ruled out
Context
On July 30, clashes occurred at the border crossing between Spin Boldak (Kandahar province)-Chaman (Balochistan province) which resulted in at least 22 people killed and multiple injuries reported by both sides. Crowds gathered to cross the border after it was temporarily opened for the Eid al-Adha holiday period, having been closed for two months due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. The border was meant to be open for two days from July 29, but was closed on Thursday on the Pakistani side. Those trying to enter from the Afghanistan side reportedly attempted to remove barricades and vandalized a quarantine center and a Pakistani government facility. During the unrest Pakistani and Afghan forces exchanged fire, with officials from both sides of the border claiming their troops were fired upon first. The clashes escalated and Pakistani forces fired shells into Afghan territory during the fighting, which reportedly hit civilian targets. Provincial officials in Kandahar reported that 15 people had been killed on the Afghan side of the border during the clashes and at least 80 others injured. Meanwhile, Pakistani hospital officials reported seven deaths and 31 injuries.
Many people in the region have family and tribal ties on both sides of the border. However, even before the closures during the COVID-19 pandemic, tensions and security along the border have increased in recent years as both nations have accused each other of providing safe havens for extremists.
Individuals in Spin Boldak and surrounding areas are advised to monitor developments, avoid the border area, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
The security environment in Afghanistan remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.
Copyright © 2024 Drum Cussac
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