Taliban captures Afghanistan Tajikistan's main border crossing
On Tuesday, officials said the Taliban seized Afghanistan's main border crossing with Tajikistan, security forces resigned and some fled across the border.
The capture of Sher Khan Bandar, 50km from Kunduz city, in the far north of Afghanistan, is the most significant advantage for the Taliban since the United States began the final phase of its withdrawal in May.
"Unfortunately, this morning and after an hour of fighting, the Taliban captured the port of Sherkhan and the town bordering Tajikistan and all border checkpoints," said Khalidin Hakimi, a member of the Kunduz provincial council.
Also, an army officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AFP: "We were forced to leave all checkpoints [...] and some of our troops crossed the border. Went to Tajikistan.
"By morning, they (Taliban fighters) were everywhere, hundreds of people," he added.
Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid confirmed that the insurgents had crossed the Panjj River.
"Our mujahideen have full control over all border crossings with Tajikistan in Sher Khan Bandar and Kunduz," he told AFP.
Authorities cut off contact with the area Monday night, said Omaruddin Wali, another member of the provincial council.
Across the bridge is a 700-meter US-funded bridge that opened in 2007 to promote trade between Central Asian neighbors.
