At least 50 Afghan children, allegedly involved in smuggling activities, were deported back to Afghanistan through the Torkham border crossing. The children, who had illegally crossed the border fence, included both boys and girls.

According to reports, over 700 children attempt to cross the border daily.

Initially detained and facing potential legal action under Pakistan’s Foreigners Act, the children were released after the intervention of a tribal jirga. The jirga facilitated their deportation citing the holy month of Ramadan and a spirit of goodwill.

Landi Kotal SHO Adnan Afridi stated that the illegal entry of Afghan children into Pakistan via the Torkham border has become a recurring problem. He explained that these children are often unwittingly used in smuggling operations, including narcotics and potentially subversive materials.  Their attempts to cross the border frequently involve damaging the fence.

While acknowledging the legal grounds for prosecution under the Foreigners Act, Mr. Afridi highlighted the jirga’s intervention and the decision to deport the children instead of pursuing legal action. He emphasized that repeated warnings have been issued, but the Afghan government has been reluctant to address the issue, leaving the children vulnerable to accidents, including those involving vehicles.

Tehsil Chairman Shah Khalid Shinwari condemned the use of children in illegal activities, calling it both morally and legally reprehensible. He urged parents to prioritize their children’s education and future, rather than involving them in such dangerous and illegal work.

Tribal jirga member Malik Tajuddin Shinwari expressed gratitude to the police and Frontier Corps North for their cooperation and respect for the jirga’s decision, allowing the children to be deported without imprisonment.

The event was also attended by representatives from the Customs Clearing Agents Association, including President Mujeeb Shinwari and Zakir Shinwari.

The Torkham border crossing was recently opened after being closed for almost a month due to Pakistani objections on check-posts being built in the border’s zero point by Afghan forces.