DERA MURAD JAMALI: Several NGOs who were providing relief goods in Balochistan’s flood-hit areas have stopped operations after trucks carrying relief goods were looted in Dera Murad Jamali.

Officials claimed that hundreds of people, including women, who were affected by floods gathered near the Tehsildar office after receiving information about the arrival of trucks.

After intercepting two trucks, they took away ration and other relief items, sources said.

Later, police and local administration officials reached the spot to control the situation.

The NGOs have sought security from law enforcement agencies while also demanding actions against the looters.

Meanwhile, there were reports about protests in Dera Bugti, Kohlu and other areas over non-provision of relief goods.

The protesters alleged that goods were reaching the affected areas, but the administration has been dumping them in government godowns and distributing on the basis of political affiliations.

However, government officials have denied the allegation and said that some elements were exploiting the situation and creating propaganda.

They said the Provincial Disaster Management Authority and many NGOs were involved in equitable distribution of relief goods including cooked food, drinking water and tents.

Published in Dawn, August 31st, 2022