LAHORE – The Punjab government has initiated a large-scale crackdown targeting Afghan residents living or working in the province without legal documentation. The campaign also includes a financial incentive to encourage public cooperation.
Authorities stated that the operation focuses on Afghan residents who lack valid papers, run businesses unlawfully, or use forged Pakistani identity cards (CNICs). Landlords and shopkeepers renting to undocumented Afghan nationals are also under scrutiny.
Officials clarified that Afghan residents conducting business while holding only tourist or medical visas will face legal action. To support the campaign, the government has introduced a reward of Rs. 10,000 for verified tip-offs about illegal residency or business activities. Informants’ identities will remain confidential, and Station House Officers (SHOs) have been instructed to immediately release the reward to eligible citizens.
Punjab Police have urged local residents to assist in the operation, assuring swift follow-up on credible information. The Inspector General of Police emphasized that the reward system aims to improve the effectiveness of the crackdown.
Recent data indicate a sharp rise in the arrests of Afghan nationals across Pakistan, showing an increase of nearly 150 percent since early November. In recent days, authorities detained 7,764 Afghan residents, with the highest numbers in Chaghi, Attock, and Quetta.
Meanwhile, departures and deportations surged to 37,448 individuals during the same period. Officials reported that 47 percent of those returning possessed Proof of Registration (PoR) cards, while 44 percent had no documentation at all. Overall, 93 percent of deported individuals were living in Pakistan without legal status.
In other news read more about Fraudsters Impersonating Shaukat Khanum Hospital CEO Arrested for Targeting Senators
Authorities said the crackdown aims to regulate illegal residency and business activities, ensuring law enforcement and public safety. Citizens are encouraged to report undocumented Afghan residents to help authorities enforce regulations efficiently and maintain lawful compliance throughout the province.
