Afghan troops seek refuge, says ISPR

RAWALPINDI: The Pakistan Army provided refuge and safe passage into Pakistan to 46 Afghan soldiers including five officers after they were unable to hold their posts on the Pak-Afghan border due to the security situation in Afghanistan.

"Afghan National Army (ANA) local commander opposite Arundu Sector, Chitral, had requested the Pakistan Army for refuge and safe passage for 46 soldiers of the Afghan National Army and Border Police including five officers, as they were unable to hold their military posts along Pak-Afghan international border due to evolving security situation in Afghanistan," the ISPR said in a statement on Monday.

The reports suggested that the Pakistan authorities sent the Afghan troops after following all the formalities. The Pakistan Army contacted Afghan authorities for information and necessary formalities. The Afghan soldiers arrived at the Arundu Sector, Chitral, late Sunday night. After contact with the Afghan authorities and necessary military procedures, the soldiers and officers were provided refuge. The Afghan soldiers were provided food, shelter and necessary medical care as per established military norms. These soldiers and officers will be returned to the Afghan authorities in a dignified manner after due process.

Previously, on July 1, at least 35 Afghan soldiers had requested the Pakistan Armyfor refuge and safe passage due to inability to hold their military post along Pak-Afghan international border. They were also given safe passage into Pakistan and handed over to the Afghan authorities after due procedure.

On the other hand, Afghan ministry of defence said that Afghan forces had not sought any refuge from Pakistan saying that the Afghan government had reservations about Pakistan.