The Rawalpindi police have been instructed to intensify efforts to identify and detain undocumented Afghan nationals residing or working in the district without legal documentation. The directive, issued by the City Police Officer, targets individuals lacking valid proof of stay, such as visas or other recognized permits, across the Rawal, Potohar, and Saddar divisions. Those detained will be transferred to a designated holding center at Government Associate College in Rawalpindi for processing and eventual repatriation to Afghanistan.
Crackdown of Undocumented Afghan Nationals
This crackdown aligns with Pakistan’s broader policy to address illegal immigration, particularly in response to security concerns. The operation includes verifying the identities of residents through coordinated efforts with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). Afghan nationals holding expired visas, Afghan Citizen Cards (ACC), or UNHCR tokens are among those prioritized for detention. The initiative follows reports of inconsistent enforcement in previous efforts, prompting renewed focus on compliance.
Public Response
Recent posts on X reflect public sentiment, with some highlighting the government’s push for phased repatriation and stricter immigration controls, emphasizing that no foreigner will be allowed to stay without legal status. However, concerns have been raised about the humanitarian impact, particularly for Afghan refugees who have lived in Pakistan for decades, many fleeing conflict or persecution in their home country. The policy has sparked debate over balancing national security with the rights of vulnerable populations, as some fear forced deportations could expose returnees to significant risks in Afghanistan.
Details of Operation
The operation is part of a larger nationwide effort, with similar measures reported in other regions like Islamabad and Attock, where holding centers have been established to facilitate deportations. Authorities have stated that the process will be conducted in phases, prioritizing those involved in criminal activities, though families of such individuals may also face collective deportation. As of early July 2025, over 2,200 Afghan nationals have been deported from Rawalpindi, while more than 1,800 were released after presenting valid documentation.
What’s Next
This development underscores Pakistan’s ongoing challenge of managing its large Afghan refugee population, estimated at over 4 million, including both documented and undocumented individuals. The government maintains that the policy targets all illegal immigrants, not just Afghans, and is in line with national security objectives. However, international organizations continue to urge Pakistan to reconsider its approach, citing potential violations of human rights principles, particularly for those at risk of persecution upon return.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 26th, 2025
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