ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad Capital Police have detained 61 foreigners for their illegal stay in Islamabad, following combing and searching operations. These arrests highlight efforts to address immigration-related issues in the capital.
One operation conducted by Sabzi Mandi police in I-11/4 led to the detention of 39 foreigners who failed to produce legal documents, including passports and visas, regarding their entry and stay in Pakistan. The Bhara Kahu police also conducted two combing operations in Athal Chowk and Kiani Road, resulting in the detention of 15 foreigners. In addition, seven other aliens were rounded up by the Phulgran police at Seri Chowk.
As of now, 65 cases have been registered against these foreigners who were residing in the capital without proper documentation. These cases are currently under trial in courts, with authorities taking legal action against a total of 451 foreigners who were found staying in the country illegally.
In alignment with the caretaker government’s plan to repatriate over 1.1 million aliens living illegally in Pakistan, the police have initiated the process of gathering data on such individuals in the Rawalpindi district. A police official stated that they have begun collecting data on all foreigners residing illegally in the district.
Station house officers (SHOs) have been instructed to compile details from their respective areas and submit a report to the city police officer within five days. It is emphasized that the police should treat foreign nationals with respect and avoid harassment. Once the data is collected, it will be sent to higher authorities for further directives.
The presence of a significant number of foreigners in different parts of Rawalpindi, including Pirwadhai, Sadiqabad, and Naseerabad, engaged in various businesses, underscores the importance of addressing immigration and legal documentation issues for a more regulated and secure environment.
