Over 11,000 Illegal Foreign Nationals Deported from Punjab

In a major crackdown on illegal foreign nationals residing in Pakistan, authorities have successfully deported 11,892 foreign nationals, including many Afghan nationals, from Punjab, according to the Punjab Police spokesperson.

The ongoing campaign, aimed at removing illegal immigrants, has seen the authorities send 12,274 individuals to holding centres. Currently, 382 illegal foreign nationals remain in holding points across the province. Lahore alone has 5 holding centres, while a total of 46 such centres have been established across Punjab.

The police have emphasised that the operation follows international laws and the provincial government’s policy on the removal of illegal residents. Punjab’s Inspector General of Police, Dr. Usman Anwar, assured that the security forces are on high alert, ensuring the complete evacuation of illegal immigrants.

“Human rights are being fully respected during the evacuation process,” said Dr. Anwar, stressing the importance of upholding ethical standards during the operation. He also instructed the Lahore CCPO, RPOs, and DPOs to expedite the process of evacuating illegal foreign nationals.

To enhance the effectiveness of the operation, security agencies such as the Special Branch, CTD, and intelligence-based units are actively identifying illegal immigrants through intelligence-driven information.