Taliban Links Tajikistan Border Clash to Smuggling

Following Tajikistan’s report of an armed clash along the two countries’ border, the Taliban administration said recent activity in the area had been brought under control and that there was no serious security problem or military action against Tajikistan, apart from the movement of smugglers.

Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said Kabul would not allow any military movement on the Afghanistan-Tajikistan border. He added that activity had taken place along the border a few days ago, but had now been contained.

Mujahid also said smuggler movement along the border had existed in the past, but according to him, no action would be taken from Afghan territory against Tajikistan. His remarks came after Tajik authorities reported an armed clash on the border.

Tajikistan’s National Security Committee said two Afghan citizens were killed in the incident. The agency said the two were residents of Imam Sahib district in Kunduz province and were carrying about 17 kilograms of hashish after illegally entering the Fathabad area in Jihon district of Khatlon province.

The Afghanistan-Tajikistan border has in recent years been considered one of the sensitive security areas in Central Asia. Tajikistan has repeatedly voiced concern over security threats and illegal activity along the border, while the Taliban administration has consistently said it does not allow Afghan territory to be used against neighbouring countries.