Islamabad: In a bid to enforce its “Illegal Foreigners’ Repatriation Plan,” Pakistan has initiated a series of measures resulting in the arrest and detention of over 1,500 Afghan nationals, according to data compiled by the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). The figures reflect the ongoing efforts by the government to manage the presence of Afghan nationals within its borders, as tensions mount over the treatment of those holding Proof of Registration (PoR) and Afghan Citizen Cards (ACC).

According to Relief Web, the Pakistani government’s directives have led to significant actions against Afghan nationals, including those residing in Islamabad Capital Territory and Rawalpindi, with a mandate to relocate or face deportation. The enforcement of this plan has primarily affected holders of ACCs and undocumented Afghan nationals, who comprise 88% of recent arrests. Concerns have been raised by the UNHCR, which has urged the government to consider exemptions for vulnerable individuals and those with international protection needs.

During the latest reporting period from March 8 to 14, 2026, a total of 1,533 Afghan nationals were detained, marking a 7% decrease from the previous week. Balochistan accounted for half of these arrests, with significant activity also reported in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, and Punjab. Notably, Chaghi, Islamabad, and Karachi emerged as the leading districts for arrest and detention since the beginning of the year. Despite these efforts, the data suggests potential underreporting, particularly concerning undocumented individuals.