Pakistani Crackdown: Islamabad's New 'Safe Zones' and Afghan Repatriation Efforts

In a bid to tighten its grip on illegal immigration, Pakistan has declared Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Murree, and Haripur as 'safe zones.' This move, reported by Khaama Press, aims to bar undocumented migrants from these areas while enforcing stricter visa regulations and prohibiting SIM card issuance and property deals for those without valid legal status.

The decision emerged from a strategic meeting at the Capital Development Authority, which included officials from the Interior Ministry, National Database and Registration Authority, Federal Investigation Agency, and counterterrorism police. Authorities have warned of severe actions against violations, adding that a joint database is being developed to maintain oversight of foreign residents.

Pakistan's intensified campaign primarily targets Afghan nationals, with reports suggesting thousands have been detained or deported. Though the government set a deadline of July 31 for illegal Afghan migrants to exit the country, many remain, prompting legal actions. International bodies have raised humanitarian concerns, urging Islamabad to consider human rights as it enforces its migration policies.

To facilitate the crackdown, joint teams from various agencies are operational, focusing on undocumented Afghans. A meeting chaired by Quetta division commissioner Shahzeb Khan Kakar reviewed strategies for the ongoing operations. Emphasizing coordination, the commissioner urged the inclusion of local leaders to ensure a peaceful repatriation process.

Special care for women and children during deportations was stressed, and agencies have been asked to ensure full collaboration and devise effective strategies for the repatriation of Afghan nationals, according to reports from Dawn.

(With inputs from agencies.)