In a devastating incident on May 30, 2026, a truck transporting Afghan returnees from Pakistan crashed near the Surkhakan intersection in Laghman Province. The accident, which occurred on a main highway linking Kabul to eastern provinces, has left at least 22 people dead and about 36 others injured, many of whom are women and children.

Local officials, including Abdul Malik Niazai, spokesperson for the provincial governor, reported that among the deceased were 10 children and five women. The injured passengers were quickly transported to hospitals in neighboring Nangarhar Province, where several remain in critical condition. The truck reportedly fell into a ditch after the driver fell asleep at the wheel, leading to the rollover.

The victims were part of a larger group of Afghans returning home as a result of Pakistan's Illegal Foreigners’ Repatriation Plan, which has seen a significant number of undocumented Afghan migrants deported or pressured to leave. Recent estimates suggest that over 447,000 Afghans have returned from Pakistan since the beginning of 2026.

This tragic event underscores the perils faced by many Afghan returnees, who often rely on overcrowded and unsafe transportation options due to limited resources. Traffic accidents are common in Afghanistan, where roads are frequently poorly maintained and dangerous driving practices prevail.

The Taliban government expressed sorrow over the tragedy, with spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid offering condolences and prayers for the victims and their families. As investigations into the accident continue, there are calls for improving road safety and transportation conditions in the war-torn country.