More than 3,000 Afghan refugees were sent back from Iran and Pakistan in a day, as per a Taliban official. The repatriation involved 693 families, totaling 3,610 individuals, returning to Afghanistan. These Afghan returnees used various border crossings to enter Afghanistan, including Torkham, Islam Qala, Pul-i-Abresham, Spin Boldak, and Bahramcha.
In this repatriation effort, 752 families, comprising 3,096 people, were taken to their hometowns, while 411 families received humanitarian aid. Additionally, telecommunication companies distributed 645 SIM cards to the returning Afghan refugees. The official also disclosed that 2,167 Afghan migrants were deported from Pakistan and Iran the day before.
Earlier complaints from Afghan refugees in Pakistan highlighted issues of police pressure, arrests, and exploitation. Reports indicated a lack of basic human rights for Afghan refugees in Pakistan, leading to fear and anxiety among the community. Human rights and refugee support organizations have raised concerns over the treatment of Afghan refugees and the government’s failure to protect their rights.
Tensions between the Taliban and Pakistan have escalated, resulting in increased pressure on Afghan refugees in Pakistan. Reports suggest widespread harassment and extortion of Afghan migrants by Pakistani forces, leading to a climate of fear and insecurity among the refugee population. Afghan refugees have expressed distress over the situation, citing lack of protection and respect for their rights.
