Afghan, Pakistani forces clash in Goshta

JALALABAD (PAN): Afghan forces pulled down a controversial border gate following a seven-hour clash with Pakistani troops in the eastern province of Nangarhar, an official said on Thursday.

The overnight skirmish was touched off by a Pakistani attack on an Afghan border post, prompting a strong response from the national forces, a security official told Pajhwok Afghan News.

At least 10 Pakistani border guards were killed and wounded in the ferocious fire exchange in Goshta district, the source said on condition of anonymity. “One Afghan was martyred and five others were wounded.”

Afghan troops were staying in the area where the gate had been erected by Pakistan some weeks ago. Isa Khan, the district chief, also confirmed the clash but refused to give further details.

Resident Bilal Karim Momand said the overnight fighting caused civilians no harm. Heavy weapons were used by both sides during the battle that continued until sunrise, he added.

Pakistan had built the gate and other installations at zero point along the porous frontier in Goshta and Lalpura districts of the province, according to local authorities.

The constructions fuelled new tensions between the neighbours and Deputy Foreign Minister Javed Ludin summoned Pakistani Ambassador Mohammad Sadiq on the issue.

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