Landi Kotal [Pakistan], Jan.2 : Starting from January 1, possession of Pakistani passport has been made mandatory for cross-border movement by Pakistan nationals at Torkham border following the arrest of some suspected Afghans with fake Pakistani Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs).
Authorities made the announcement through loudspeakers and displayed banners at prominent places at the border to apprise Pakistani nationals about the new restrictions prior to expiry of the deadline which was December 31, reports the Dawn.
Earlier, authorities had permitted Pakistani nationals to use their CNICs for cross-border movement but ended the relaxation after receiving information about preparation of fake CNICs in Nangarhar province of Afghanistan.
According to officials, the Shinwari tribal people, living on both sides of the Durand Line, would be exempted from possessing passport as they were already issued temporary 'Rahdari' cards by Khyber Agency political administration after necessary verification.
However, no visa on passport would be required by Pakistani nationals..
Source: ANI
