Pakistan Gives Refuge, Safe Passage To 46 Afghan Soldiers, Officers: ISPR

RAWALPINDI: Afghan National Army ( ANA) local Commander opposite Arundu Sector , Chitral requested Pakistan Army for refuge and safe passage for 46 soldiers of Afghan National Army and Border Police including 5 officers as they were unable to hold their military posts along Pak – Afghan International Border due to evolving security situation in Afghanistan . Pak army contacted Afghan authorities for information and necessary formalities.

According to ISPR, TThese Afghan soldiers arrived at Arundu Sector, Chitral late last night . After contact with Afghan authorities and necessary military procedures, 46 soldiers including 5 officers have been given refuge / safe passage into Pakistan. Afghan soldiers have been provided food, shelter and necessary medical care as per established military norms.These soldiers including officers will be returned to Afghan govt authorities in a dignified manner after due process . Previously on July 1, 35 Afghan soldiers also requested Pak army for refuge/ safe passage due to inability to hold their military post along Pak- Afg International Border. They were also given safe passage into Pakistan and handed over to Afghan govt authorities after due procedure.

Local Sources Add: It may be recalled that the Arundu/Chitral sector is the same area where in October 2019, at least 11 People, including 6 Pakistan Army soldiers and 5 civilians had sustained injuries when Afghan forces had resorted to unprovoked Firing from across the Afghan Border. Afghan Forces Fired from the Nari District of the Kunar Province, Targeting the civilian Population in Arundu village in Chitral.