IDPs from Khyber Agency reach Jalozai camp

NOWSHERA: Security forces started operation against militants in Tehsil Bara of Khyber Agency on October 22 and arrested more than 50 militants while more than 25 hideouts were destroyed. Due to military action in the area, thousands of affected families have reached the Jalozai camp, a settlement established for the conflict-hit IDPs of Fata in Nowshera district.

According to camp administration, they were told about the IDPs of Malik Deen Khel and Safaa but now they are also receiving IDPs from Khyber Agency.

The sources said a large number of IDPs including women, children and elderly persons were seen standing in long queues to seek registration. However, only 300 families could be properly provided shelter and other facilities as the process of registration was taking a long time given that a mere three counters were established for the purpose, the sources said.

The IDPs said that they were not provided protection and care and many families including children and women were staying in the open at the camp.

They added the security forces gave them a couple of hours notice to vacate their homes and leave for safer places and they left everything behind and escaped to save their lives as the security forces’ gunship helicopters were flying overhead.

The security forces operation is still underway.