Operations Continue Across Punjab
Punjab authorities are continuing operations against Afghan nationals living in the province without valid immigration documents. The campaign is being carried out under the federal government’s repatriation policy.
The Punjab Home Department’s Foreign National Security Cell said enforcement teams are operating across residential areas, markets and commercial centres. Officials are checking immigration documents and identifying foreign nationals staying in Pakistan without valid visas or residence permits.
According to official figures, 138,342 undocumented Afghan nationals have been repatriated from Punjab so far. Authorities also reported that 2,588,016 Afghan nationals have returned to Afghanistan from different parts of Pakistan under the nationwide repatriation programme.
Officials said Afghan citizens without valid visas are considered undocumented under the current government policy. Those identified during inspections are taken into custody and transferred to designated holding centres.
Holding Centres Facilitate Deportation Process
Punjab currently has 36 operational holding centres for undocumented foreign nationals. At present, 53 Afghan citizens are staying at these facilities while awaiting repatriation.
The holding centres provide temporary accommodation, registration services and other basic arrangements. Authorities complete identity verification and legal procedures before transporting individuals to the border.
After the required formalities are completed, the Afghan nationals are taken to the Torkham border crossing. They are then handed over to the relevant Afghan authorities.
The Home Department said the operation is being coordinated with police, district administrations and federal agencies. Officials are also checking cases involving forged documents, false identity records and illegal registration.
The department clarified that the campaign is focused only on Afghan nationals living in Pakistan without valid legal documents. Those holding valid visas or recognised residence status are not included in the enforcement action.
Citizens Asked to Report Illegal Stay
The Punjab Home Department has urged citizens to support the campaign by reporting undocumented residents, identity fraud or suspicious activities through the Emergency 15 helpline.
Officials assured the public that the identities of informants would remain confidential. The department said public cooperation could help authorities identify individuals using false documents or hiding their immigration status.
The Foreign National Security Cell continues to monitor the operation across Punjab. Authorities said inspections, detentions and repatriation activities would continue under the federal government’s policy.
