Lahore: The Punjab Home Department, under the directives of the Chief Minister, continues to advance its efforts in the repatriation of illegally residing Afghan nationals, with 143,474 individuals already repatriated from the province. According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, the Foreign National Security Wing has been conducting operations in alignment with the government’s policy, ensuring that Afghan nationals without valid visas are processed and returned to Afghanistan.

The ongoing campaign has resulted in over 400,000 search operations across Punjab, focusing on residential areas and markets. These efforts have led to the registration of cases against 803 individuals for renting properties to illegal Afghan residents. Currently, 39 holding centres are in operation throughout the province, facilitating the temporary accommodation, registration, and subsequent repatriation of Afghan nationals. Presently, 153 individuals are housed in these centres, with the repatriated nationals handed over to Afghan authorities at the Torkham border.

The Punjab Home Department spokesperson emphasized the importance of public cooperation in this national effort, urging citizens to report any illegal stays or suspicious activities involving Afghan nationals. The identity of informants will remain confidential. The spokesperson also noted that the measures are strictly targeted at those residing in Pakistan illegally, and the Foreign National Security Wing is maintaining province-wide oversight to support the mission’s completion.