Pakistan’s Ministry of Interior has directed the arrest of Afghan nationals living in the country without valid visas starting from July 10. The order, issued to provincial Chief Secretaries, follows decisions made during a review meeting on the Illegal Foreigners’ Repatriation Plan. The ministry emphasized the need for strict implementation of the plan.
The directive mandates the immediate arrest of any Afghan national found residing in Pakistan without a valid visa effective July 10. The ministry instructed all relevant authorities to ensure the enforcement of this order, including Deputy Commissioners, district administrations, police, and other law enforcement agencies. Additionally, a report detailing Afghan nationals without valid visas, actions taken against them, and their current status is required by July 11.
Pakistan’s deportation efforts, initiated in 2023 and renewed last year, have intensified. The government revoked hundreds of thousands of residence permits for Afghans, warning of arrests for non-compliance. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has criticized the forced repatriation of Afghan refugees, citing violations of international human rights and refugee law.
The UNHCR reports that nearly 270,000 Afghans have been deported to Afghanistan this year, primarily from Iran and Pakistan. Vulnerable groups, including women, children, former government affiliates, media workers, and the LGBTIQ+ community, face significant risks upon return. The UN urges countries to uphold their legal obligations and protect Afghans from harm by refraining from actions that endanger their well-being.
