Islamabad: The Pakistani government has issued a strict ultimatum to illegal immigrants residing within its borders, giving them the October 31 deadline to leave the country voluntarily or face arrest and deportation.
Foreigners living illegally in Pakistan must leave the country by October 31 or law enforcement agencies will ensure their arrest and deportation to their respective countries.
This announcement came after a meeting of the Apex Committee of the National Action Plan, where a decision was made to take decisive action against illegal immigrants, targeting not only individuals but also their trade and properties.
Addressing the media in Islamabad, Pakistan’s Caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti outlined the government’s position. “We have given them a deadline of November 1 to willingly return to their countries, and if they don’t, all law enforcement agencies (LEAs) of the state and provinces will deport them,” Bugti stated. He emphasized that the security and welfare of Pakistani citizens were paramount, leading to this strict measure against illegal immigrants.
The deadline also applies to individuals attempting to enter Pakistan without valid passports or visas; after November 1, entry without proper documentation will be prohibited. Bugti highlighted that this policy aligned with international norms, as no other country allows entry without the requisite documents.
Bugti revealed that there are approximately 1.73 million unregistered illegal Afghan immigrants in Pakistan. To facilitate their departure, the government will accept electronic Afghan identity cards (e-tazkiras) from October 10-31. After this period, the strict passport and visa policy will be enforced.
Pakistan to Launch Crackdown Against Illegal Immigrants
Furthermore, a comprehensive operation will commence on November 1, targeting illegal properties and businesses owned by immigrants or conducted in collaboration with Pakistanis. Intelligence agencies and law enforcement bodies will identify and seize these assets. Pakistani citizens involved in aiding illegal practices will face legal consequences.
In addition to cracking down on illegal immigrants, the government plans to combat fraudulent practices related to identity cards and passports. DNA testing will be employed to verify the authenticity of Pakistani identity cardholders.
To encourage public participation, a universal helpline number and web portal will be established, allowing citizens to anonymously report illegal activities, including undocumented immigrants, smuggling, and hoarding. The government will offer rewards under an informant scheme to incentivize reporting.
The authorities are also intensifying efforts against smuggling, illicit money transfers, power theft, and narcotics-related activities. Joint check posts will be established to curb illegal practices, ensuring that the state retains sole control over the use of force, preventing any unauthorized entities from exercising violence under various pretexts, such as political violence, militancy, ethnicity, or religion.
