PESHAWAR:
The deadline for the repatriation of Afghan refugees and other foreigners residing illegally in Pakistan has expired, with authorities set to begin the return process from today (Monday).
An official meeting chaired by the additional chief secretary home was held on Sunday to review the plan, attended via Zoom by district police and administrative officers.
The provincial administration subsequently issued a 10-point directive to police and district authorities for the repatriation process.
The guidelines instructed police to maintain close coordination with district administrations to ensure the safe and dignified return of all illegal foreigners, including Afghan refugees holding Proof of Registration (PoR) and Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) documents.
At the same time, Afghan refugees and foreigners who legally entered Pakistan on work visas or passports were not to be harassed.
Authorities were directed to deploy adequate security during the process and to ensure repatriation was conducted in a respectful manner. Foreigners not listed on the FNSC dashboard and without valid visas or passports are also to be repatriated.
The directive further stated that station house officers (SHOs) must prevent landlords from renting properties to illegal foreigners, warning that violators would face action under the tenancy law. Police and administrative officers were also instructed to hold regular meetings to review progress.
Additionally, local elders and elected representatives have been asked to assist in persuading foreigners for voluntary and dignified repatriation. The notification stressed that no individual holding only PoR or ACC cards without valid travel documents would be allowed to stay.
