Police in Rawalpindi have registered a total of 63 cases as part of an ongoing operation against illegal Afghan nationals, 18 of which were filed against individuals who rented out their properties to undocumented individuals.
216 Afghan nationals who were living in the garrison city illegally have been transferred to holding facilities in preparations of their deportation, officials have stated.
The crackdown, which has been underway for the past five days, follows directives issued by the Punjab government targeting illegal Afghans and other foreign nationals.
Citizens have been urged to share any information regarding undocumented foreigners with the police. A police spokesperson stated that the cases were registered across multiple stations, including City, Pirwadhai, Waris Khan, Bani, New Town, Sadiqabad, Ratta Amral, RA Bazaar, Race Course, Wah Cantt, Chaklala, Airport, Taxila, Saddar Wah, Civil Lines, Morgah, Naseerabad, Mandara, Jatli, Sadr Bironi, Gujar Khan, Dhamial, Kallar Syedan, and Rawat.
Authorities emphasized that undocumented people are not allowed to occupy homes, businesses, or any type of property and warned citizens against renting or selling property to illegal foreigners.
They also advised against providing vehicles, rickshaws, or engaging in any form of business dealings, financial transactions, or employment with illegal foreigners.
“No citizen should employ any illegal foreigners. Legally residing foreigners should ensure their registration at the relevant police station. All citizens are requested to stay vigilant and report any illegal foreigners to the police. Their identities will be kept confidential,” the police statement said.
The government has instructed strict compliance with the measures, warning that violators will face legal consequences.