Dushanbe, July 18 -- With just days left before the 15-day deadline set by Tajik authorities for Afghan refugees, the government has already begun mass deportations, Khaama Press reported.

Citing multiple sources, the outlet said over 150 individuals were forcibly rounded up from markets and public areas across the country on Wednesday and deported.

Khaama Press reported that those deported include men, women, elderly individuals, and minors under the age of 18. In numerous cases, families were torn apart--children deported while their parents remain in Tajikistan, or spouses separated from each other. The sudden and aggressive nature of the removals has sparked panic and distress among Afghan refugees in the region.

Of particular conc...