LAHORE: Punjab authorities have arrested 284 illegal Afghan nationals and placed them in 39 holding centres before their repatriation to Afghanistan through the Torkham border. The action follows Pakistan’s national policy to return foreign nationals residing illegally in the country.
Meanwhile, the nationwide campaign against illegal foreign residents continues across Pakistan. According to official figures, authorities have repatriated 2,663,891 Afghan nationals under the national repatriation programme since the initiative began.
Repatriation process continues across Punjab
The Punjab Home Department’s Foreign National Security Cell is actively coordinating operations throughout the province. Officials confirmed that authorities have already repatriated 139,902 illegal Afghan nationals from Punjab.
Currently, the 284 detained Afghan nationals remain at 39 holding centres established across the province. These facilities provide temporary accommodation, complete registration procedures, and prepare individuals for their return to Afghanistan.
Authorities escort the migrants to the Torkham border after completing all legal formalities. They then hand them over to the Afghan authorities under the approved repatriation process.
Home Department seeks public cooperation
Furthermore, the Punjab Home Department urged citizens to support the ongoing operation by reporting illegal stays, identity fraud, or suspicious activities through the Emergency 15 helpline.
The department assured residents that it would keep the identity of informants completely confidential. Moreover, officials stressed that enforcement actions target only foreign nationals who are living in Pakistan illegally, while the Foreign National Security Cell continues monitoring and coordinating the province-wide operation.
