ISLAMABAD: The Counter Terrorism Department in Islamabad, with the assistance of intelligence agencies, has initiated an operation against Afghan refugees. This operation follows the recent announcement by the federal government of a major drive to repatriate illegal refugees residing in the country.
In the first phase of the operation on Sunday, reports indicate that the authorities apprehended 800 Afghan refugees. Out of those detained, the authorities released 400 individuals after they provided their residence proof. However, 375 of the arrested individuals lacked proper identification documents. They are currently in custody and the authorities will deport them after completion of the formalities.
Sources indicate that lists were based on intelligence reports before the operation, and the lists also involve individuals with past involvement in criminal activities.
This operation will continue over the next few days and may intensify. The government’s decision to deport 1.1 million Afghan refugees living illegally in Pakistan, starting with those who have not renewed their visas, has led to increased enforcement efforts.
Afghan Taliban Reportedly Capture 200 TTP Fighters Involved In Chitral Attack
Meanwhile, a recent report from Voice of America has disclosed that the Afghan Taliban have apprehended approximately 200 fighters affiliated with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), who were allegedly responsible for an attack on security forces in Chitral. The information is based on statements from unnamed Pakistani officials, conveyed during a meeting in Kabul where a Pakistani delegation led by Special Representative Asif Durrani met with Afghan counterparts.
This meeting occurred approximately two weeks after an attack originating from Afghanistan resulted in the deaths of four Pakistani soldiers. In response, Pakistan’s military retaliated and eliminated twelve attackers. Afghan authorities have detained the 200 TTP militants involved in the Chitral attack, currently holding them in custody.
Furthermore, the Voice of America report indicates that Afghanistan is in the process of relocating TTP fighters away from the Pakistan border. The report also cites Pakistani officials who believe that Afghanistan’s government is deliberately distancing itself from groups like the TTP, known for criminal activities and cross-border attacks.
This development unfolds within the context of Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to engage with Afghanistan in order to prevent terrorist attacks originating from Afghan territory. Pakistan has repeatedly accused the TTP of operating from bases in Afghanistan, leading to a surge in terrorism incidents across the country in recent months.
Additionally, the Afghan government has reportedly advised its citizens not to support or collaborate with the TTP in their activities aimed at Pakistan.
