16 Pakistani refugees swallow soap in attempt not to be deported from Turkey

Sixteen Pakistani refugees staying at a repatriation center have swallowed bar soaps after finding out that Turkish authorities have initiated procedures to deport them. The refugees were rushed to a hospital where the soaps were cleaned from their stomachs.

Duvar English

Sixteen Pakistani refugees staying at a repatriation center in the Central Anatolian province of Kayseri, have swallowed soaps after Turkish authorities initiated procedures for their deportation.

The refugees were taken to the Kayseri State Hospital where doctors ordered gastric suction, Doğan news agency reported on July 7.

The refugees were reported to be in a good state of health and will be deported to Pakistan after being discharged from the hospital.

The Kayseri Governor's Office issued a statement, saying: “After their deportation procedures were initiated, our 16 Pakistani-origin guests have attempted to swallow soaps that were given to them for personal hygiene, and attempted to be transferred to the hospital.”

The governor's office also said that there is “no adverse situation” with regards to their state of health.

In the last 10 years, Turkey has become one of the most important countries on the migrants’ route to Europe.

Most of the migrants leave their countries for similar reasons. Some hit the road due to war and violence in their countries, while others dream of better opportunities. In either case, the route is of risks, with many becoming victims at the hands of human traffickers.