Paris police clear hundreds from makeshift refugee camp

By Hajer M'tiri

PARIS (AA) - A makeshift refugee camp set up months ago in the Porte de la Chapelle area of northeastern Paris was cleared on Tuesday, according to police.

Most of the 1,600 residents are Afghan and African refugees and migrants. Some 75 people were described as being "vulnerable", including "29 single women and 22 unaccompanied minors," according to Paris police prefecture.

"These illegal settlements, which pose significant risks to the safety and health of their occupants and residents, have been the subject of evacuation orders from the Prefect of Police," a statement read.

The authorities said temporary accommodation would be offered.

Up to 350 police and some 100 government officials took part in the operation.