A province-wide crackdown has been launched across Punjab against illegal foreign nationals, particularly undocumented Afghan refugees, under the directives of the provincial government.  According to official sources, Taxila police have taken the lead in implementing the campaign, registering four FIRs within a single dayóthe highest number in the Rawalpindi Zone. 

Several illegal residents have been arrested and shifted to the Holding Centre for further legal processing before deportation to their home country.  The authorities confirmed that homeowners renting properties to illegal Afghans are also being booked, with multiple arrests made as part of the operation.  The police teams intensified surveillance and were conducting door-to-door inspections to identify those harboring or employing undocumented individuals, they added. 

Announcements are being made in local mosques and public places to warn citizens against renting out homes or conducting business with illegal residents.  The officials sources said the crackdown would continue until all unregistered foreign nationals were identified and deported in accordance with Federal and provincial directives. 

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)