Pakistan Launches Crackdown on Undocumented Afghan Migrants

DID Press: Authorities in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province have announced a province-wide operation against Afghan migrants lacking legal documents, with the campaign set to begin on July 10.

Pakistani officials said the process of returning undocumented Afghan migrants is continuing, adding that more than 14,000 Afghan families returned to Afghanistan between July 1 and July 6. During the same period, several homes, shops, and commercial centers in different parts of Peshawar were reportedly vacated.

The operation will begin in various areas of Peshawar and target undocumented migrants as well as commercial centers accused of violating regulations. Major business areas, including Namak Mandi, Qissa Khwani Bazaar, food and flour markets, Ashraf Road, Khyber Bazaar, University Road, and fruit and vegetable markets, will be covered by the campaign.

Officials said police and security forces will jointly conduct the operation. They added that the identification process of Afghan traders without valid documents and individuals allegedly involved in illegal commercial activities has been completed, and legal action will be taken.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa authorities emphasized that the measures are directed only at individuals residing in Pakistan illegally or violating national laws, while the deportation process for undocumented migrants will continue.