27 Afghan Nationals Detained Amid Intensified Crackdown in Rawalpindi

Law enforcement agencies in Rawalpindi have intensified their crackdown on Afghan nationals, including individuals holding valid visas, familiar with the matter. The operation, which involves the Special Branch and other agencies, has resulted in the detention of 27 people, with cases registered against them under Section 14 of the Foreigners Act, 1946.

Government Directives Lead to Detentions

Sources indicate that the government has issued instructions for Afghan nationals residing in Pakistan, even those with valid visas, to be rounded up and relocated to refugee camps. Acting on these directives, police detained 25 Afghan nationals in Sadiqabad who were found to be living in Rawalpindi with valid visas. These individuals were subsequently shifted to an Afghan refugee camp on Monday.

Officials stated that the detained Afghan nationals possessed valid documents, including medical and tourist visas. However, they were reportedly picked up due to their involvement in work or business activities within Rawalpindi, which led to their arrest under Section 14 of the Foreigners Act.

Legal Proceedings Initiated

After being taken into custody, the Afghan nationals were produced before the relevant authorities. The police have begun registering cases against such foreigners, in line with the recent government instructions and legal provisions.

"All Afghan nationals with valid documents, including medical and tourist visas, were picked up because they were found working or doing business in Rawalpindi," a security official said.

The ongoing operation reflects an increased level of monitoring and enforcement regarding the presence and activities of Afghan nationals in the city. The crackdown is part of broader efforts to regulate the status of foreign nationals, particularly those from Afghanistan, residing in Pakistan.

There is no information provided regarding the duration of the crackdown or the future status of those detained. Authorities have not commented on whether similar actions are being carried out in other regions.