In a significant development with grave security implications, the Afghan insurgent group, the Taliban, has taken control of the Chaman-Wesh border crossing, one of the main border crossings with Pakistan, the insurgent group claimed in a statement on Wednesday. The crossing is one of the most strategically important border points for Afghanistan on its southern border.

The town is the latest capture by the Taliban which has already taken several important towns along the borders with Afghan neighbors.   

The crossing is the second busiest entry point and the main link between its vast southwest and Pakistani ports. Almost 900 trucks pass through the crossing daily, reported Reuters. Due to the intense fighting Pakistan sealed a port of the border on its side. 

Afghan officials, however, claimed that their security forces had repelled the attack. Zabiullah Mujahid, in a statement on Wednesday, said, "The mujahideen (insurgents) have captured an important border town called Wesh."

The Taliban has suspended all travel through the gate.

Afghan government revenue from customs ports has slumped significantly as it lost several trade points to the insurgent group. 

(SAM)