Islamabad, Caretaker Interior Minister Sarfaraz Ahmed Bugti has unequivocally stated that there will be no leeway granted on the deadline set for the voluntary repatriation of foreign nationals, inclusive of Afghans, who are in Pakistan without proper documentation.

According to a news release by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Minister Bugti emphasized during a press conference in Islamabad that the government has put the final touches on a robust plan to oversee the repatriation of these undocumented foreign nationals. Central to this plan are the Holding Centers, collaboratively conceived with the involvement of all four provinces, as well as Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir. These centers are poised to offer a secure shelter, ensuring all residents receive amenities and are treated with respect.

Bugti sought to clarify the government’s stance, emphasizing that the repatriation initiative does not solely target Afghans, but is applicable to any foreign national residing in Pakistan without the necessary legal permissions. He underscored the universal nature of immigration regulations by pointing out that no nation allows undocumented individuals to settle within its borders.

Detailing the specifics of the repatriation plan, the Interior Minister noted that those assigned to the Holding Centers, in anticipation of their eventual repatriation, will be permitted to carry an amount in their native currency, capped at 50,000 Pakistani rupees. Direct conversions to US dollars, however, are strictly prohibited.

With a firm message, Bugti warned that any Pakistani citizens aiding these illegal residents—whether by helping them acquire documents, purchase properties, or establish businesses—will be subjected to the full extent of the law. He also noted that the government has successfully completed geo-fencing of all such foreign nationals, ensuring their data is meticulously catalogued.

Addressing potential challenges associated with the large-scale repatriation, Minister Bugti expressed confidence in the state’s capacity to navigate these complexities. While emphasizing the state’s readiness to assist on humanitarian grounds, he stated that those posing a threat to Pakistan’s societal structure will face rigorous action.

Envisioning a future devoid of any illegal foreign residents, Bugti assured that the repatriation process will be carried out without any form of mistreatment. As a final note, he introduced a new Cell within the Interior Ministry, equipped with a hotline for the public to register complaints or provide information related to undocumented foreigners.