Islamabad, October 3, 2023 – Pakistan is set to launch a comprehensive operation against illegal foreign nationals residing in the country, with the operation scheduled to begin on November 1, 2023.
In a stern announcement, the government has given foreign nationals without proper documentations until the end of this month to voluntarily leave the country to avoid facing harsh actions by law enforcement agencies.
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Caretaker Interior Minister Sarfaraz Ahmed Bugti made this announcement while briefing the media about decisions taken at an important meeting of the Apex Committee, chaired by Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar in Islamabad on Tuesday. The meeting included the participation of the Army Chief, civil and military officials, and relevant authorities.
Minister Bugti emphasized that foreign nationals residing in Pakistan illegally have been provided a deadline until November 1st to depart voluntarily. He stated that all state law enforcement agencies would be mobilized to take action against these illegal foreign nationals, and they would be subject to deportation after the deadline.
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Furthermore, Minister Bugti announced that all illegal properties and businesses operated by these foreign nationals would be confiscated after November 1. He warned that legal action would be taken against any Pakistani citizens involved in illegal businesses or acquiring substantial properties through illegal foreign nationals.
A Task Force has been established within the Interior Ministry to launch and oversee these actions. Minister Bugti reiterated that the safety and security of the people of Pakistan remained the government’s top priority.
Regarding Afghan nationals, Minister Bugti stated that they could visit Pakistan with an E-Tazkara document from the 10th to the 31st of this month. However, after this period, both a visa and a passport would be mandatory for their entry into the country.
To combat the issue of fraudulent identity documents, steps are being taken to streamline the functions of the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). Minister Bugti expressed dismay at past instances where foreign nationals obtained fake national identity cards and illegal travel documents based on these fake cards.
In a bid to tighten control over illegal foreign nationals, the Minister announced the introduction of DNA tests for suspicious individuals. Additionally, a web portal will be established, offering a Universal Access Number for all Pakistanis to report information related to foreign nationals living without documents, smuggling, and hoarding. The identity of the information provider will be kept confidential, and rewards will be offered for valuable tips.
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Minister Bugti also noted the establishment of Joint Check posts at provincial borders to combat smuggling and hoarding. The government pledged to accelerate action against individuals involved in electricity theft, Hawala, Hundi, and smuggling.
Expressing concern over the rising use of narcotics, especially among youth, Minister Bugti revealed plans to establish a Counter Narcotics Center in the federal capital.
Finally, he reiterated the government’s commitment to providing protection to all people, emphasizing that no group or individual would be allowed to suppress them, as Islam calls for the protection of people rights.
Responding to a question, Minister Bugti shared that there have been twenty-four suicide bombings in Pakistan since January, with fourteen of them involving Afghan nationals. He also revealed that there are approximately 1.73 million unregistered Afghans residing in the country.
