Peshawar-Torkham Highway reopens after protests against recent 'targeted attack'

The crucial Peshawar-Torkham Highway has reopened after a temporary closure by local tribesmen protesting recent 'targeted killings' in the Khyber region. The road was blocked by Sultan Khel residents from the Zaka Khel tribe following the gunning down of two residents on Friday evening.

This latest violence occurred in the same area where two policemen had been targeted in recent months, fueling the protesters' anger over the perceived inadequate response from Zaka Khel elders and government authorities. The blockade, staged on Saturday, significantly disrupted traffic and temporarily suspended the repatriation of Afghan families through the Torkham border crossing.

Murad Hussain, a prominent figure among the protesters, stated on Sunday that a negotiating committee of young Sultan Khel tribesmen was formed to engage with government officials. Their aim is to find effective ways to address the ongoing security concerns and prevent further targeted attacks in the region, which has seen a rise in such incidents.

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a negotiating committee comprising young Sultan Khel tribesmen was formed to hold talks with government functionaries to find ways to