Fear of security operation triggers mass exodus in North Waziristan’s Datta Khel

Women, children and elderly flee homes in scorching heat in Datta Khel

Families in North Waziristan’s Datta Khel tehsil in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province are fleeing their homes in panic amid fears of an imminent large-scale security operation, leaving behind normal life as roads remain sealed and essential supplies dwindle.

According to local sources, the migration from various villages towards safer areas has continued day and night for the past week. Residents say multiple entry and exit routes to Datta Khel have been closed for several days, severely disrupting daily life. Markets are almost completely shut, while shortages of food, medicines and other necessities have begun to emerge.

Locals told The Express Tribune that under the cover of night, women, children and the elderly were forced to abandon their homes despite the intense heat. Many women have been seen standing in the open backs of vehicles, while several families are trekking on foot towards unknown destinations.

Read: Waziristan tehsil empties as unrest sparks exodus

“People are gripped with severe fear. Families were being moved in vehicles throughout the night. Many did not even have time to pack their belongings,” said a resident.

Another resident highlighted the plight of the most vulnerable. “Elderly people and patients are suffering the most. Many old individuals can barely walk but are still forced to leave. Children are terrified and women are extremely distressed.”

Residents have questioned why civilians bear the brunt of every security operation despite a heavy presence of security forces in the area. A local shopkeeper said, “The burden of every conflict and every operation falls on the poor. People are repeatedly rendered homeless and forced to rebuild their lives from scratch.”

A tribal elder criticised the absence of elected representatives. “Our MNAs and MPAs are nowhere to be seen in this time of hardship. They only appear when they need votes.” He noted that the people of Datta Khel had already been displaced multiple times due to terrorism and military operations, badly affecting their economic and mental well-being.

Affected families say no formal relief camps, medical facilities or food arrangements had been made for them so far. Many are sheltering in the open or with relatives.

Government sources say intelligence reports of terrorist presence in parts of Datta Khel have prompted tightened security measures. Officials maintain that these precautionary steps are necessary for the protection of citizens and to make potential anti-terror operations effective.

Also Read: Tribal chief gunned down in Waziristan

However, locals argue that repeated displacements have only increased anxiety and eroded trust. Residents say the people of Waziristan have endured decades of unrest, conflict and instability, and now desire nothing more than peace, dignity and a stable life.

According to sources, the exodus from Datta Khel and surrounding areas is still ongoing, with the situation remaining tense. Affected people have appealed to the government to immediately provide transport, food, clean drinking water, medical facilities and financial assistance.