Afghan refugees from a camp in Pakistan have blocked the international highway linking Baluchistan province to Afghanistan in protest at the activities of alleged criminal gangs in the area.

The refugees, from the Jangal Pir Alizai camp, fifty-five kilometres west of the Baluchi capital, Quetta, are reported to have brought traffic on the road to a complete standstill throughout yesterday.

Local officials were trying to negotiate an end to the blockade, which the protesters said would continue until action was taken against those at the camp alleged to be involved in killings linked to drugs- and arms-dealing.