Punjab starts crackdown on illegally residing foreigners, establishes camps

LAHORE: Authorities in Punjab have kick started an extensive operation targeting foreigners residing in the province without legal documentation.

The move, which began after a deadline was set on October 31, is a part of a broader strategy to bolster the national economy and enhance the prevailing security situation.

Sources indicate that the first wave of the operation will primarily focus on individuals lacking any form of identification or official papers. To facilitate this, holding zones and makeshift camps have sprung up in various districts. These camps, equipped with food, medical facilities, and adequate security, are geared to handle the large influx. Notably, arrangements have been made to provide separate accommodations for men and women.

Registration desks at these camps are utilising state-of-the-art software developed by NADRA, linking directly to the Border Management System. This ensures a streamlined process as illegal residents are moved from these camps to border crossing points for final expulsion.

In tandem with the campaign, tenant registration has also been ramped up in cities including Lahore to further monitor and regulate the influx of individuals in rented accommodations.

Preparations for the deportation of individuals have reportedly reached their concluding stages. Key institutions across the province, including the Punjab Police under the direct supervision of the Inspector General, are coordinating their efforts to ensure the campaign’s effective implementation. It has been observed that the groundwork, including the screening of local populations and mapping of foreign nationals, is nearly complete.

Special teams, made up of officials from various departments, are operational across both rural and urban sectors of the province. Reinforcing their efforts, the Pakistan Rangers are also providing the necessary security support.

A verification process is underway, examining the credentials of the foreign nationals. Under the aegis of this initiative, thousands have already left Pakistan. Moreover, as of November 1, a mandate has been issued for the expulsion of all undocumented foreigners from the country.

Authorities have made it clear that all legal protocols will be strictly adhered to throughout the operation.