Hundreds of Yazidi families, who were forcibly detained in the camps in Duhok and Zakho and prevented from returning to their hometown Shengal (Sinjar), fled the IDP camps to protect themselves from a possible attack after the hate speeches directed against them by KDP circles. The Êzidxan Asayish, local Yazidi Public Order Units, announced in a statement that hundreds of Yazidi families fleeing from the KDP reached Shengal and were welcomed by their forces.

"After the genocidal onslaught in Shengal on 3 August 2014, hundreds of families settled in camps in South Kurdistan (North Iraq) because the KDP left them defenceless. Although some of them have returned to Shengal since, many families staying in the camps continue to be prevented by the KDP."

Remarking that thousands of Yazidi families face a great threat from the latest provocation that the KDP is trying to develop, the statement said: "Once again, we tell our people that Shengal is peaceful and safe, and its stability is guaranteed. Due to the KDP provocation, hundreds of families left the camps on Friday and returned to Shengal. This is proof that the people do not consider the KDP camps safe. The safest areas for the Yazidi people are the areas under the control of the Shengal Autonomous Administration. The return of the people has also revealed that the KDP's allegations that Shengal is not safe are baseless."

Pointing out that their forces are ready to offer all their support to all Yazidi families returning to Shengal, Êzidxan Asayish made the following call: "We are ready to defend our people at any time. Our people should know that Shengal is under defence and its peace and security is ensured. Young people should strengthen the Êzidxan Asayish against all threats of attack and take responsibility for developing social defence."