Why is the Pakistani police escalating the crackdown on undocumented Afghan migrants?
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Synopsis
Amid rising tensions, the Pakistani police have intensified their crackdown on undocumented Afghan migrants, leading to numerous arrests and allegations of police misconduct. This article explores the implications of these actions and the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Intensified police operations targeting undocumented Afghan migrants are underway.
- Authorities have seized weapons and narcotics during these operations.
- Pakistan's crackdown has led to increased arrests and deportations in recent months.
- The UNHCR has raised concerns over the humanitarian impact of these policies.
- Reports of police misconduct and extortion are prevalent among Afghan migrants.
Kabul, Aug 14 (NationPress) A significant number of undocumented Afghan migrants were apprehended as Pakistani police intensified their operations in Peshawar on Thursday, part of a broader initiative targeting individuals lacking valid legal documentation.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, police reported a substantial number of arrests of undocumented Afghan migrants during a security operation in Peshawar, according to Afghan news agency Khaama Press. Authorities asserted that they seized weapons and narcotics from those taken into custody and vowed to persist with the crackdown.
The police operations in the Nasir Bagh, Kacha Garhi, and Regi areas are part of an extensive campaign aimed at undocumented Afghan nationals. However, law enforcement has not disclosed the precise number of Afghan refugees apprehended.
In recent months, Pakistan has significantly increased arrests and forced deportations of Afghan migrants lacking legal documentation, frequently conducting house-to-house searches. This drive has been accelerated as visa renewals for Afghan nationals have been halted for over a month, rendering many who were previously legally residing in the country now undocumented and susceptible to expulsion.
On Wednesday, the Pakistani government announced the formation of a special committee composed of police and intelligence officials to identify and repatriate Afghans holding Proof of Registration (PoR) cards. This committee will gather and share data from various agencies to locate Afghan migrants and coordinate enforcement actions.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has expressed concern over Pakistan's recent policies regarding Afghan migrants, which have left thousands homeless. Many Afghans report facing threats, coercion, and mistreatment by police.
Rights advocates have cautioned that the continuation of these policies threatens to exacerbate an already grave humanitarian crisis, rendering Afghan refugees vulnerable to displacement and loss of livelihood.
Meanwhile, Afghan migrants have accused local police in Pakistan of harassment through wrongful arrests and demanding bribes for their release, even when they possess valid or pending immigration documents, as reported by Khaama Press on Tuesday.
Reports from Afghan nationals in Islamabad and Rawalpindi indicate that Pakistani police have intensified arrests of Afghans in recent weeks, with some detainees allegedly being released after paying significant sums. According to eyewitnesses, officers in plain clothes demand passports and visas. If Afghans cannot provide their documents, uniformed police reportedly arrive in vehicles to arrest them.
On Monday, three Afghans detained in Rawalpindi shared on social media that they were held for approximately six hours, during which police requested money for their release. One individual stated he paid Pakistani Rupees (PKR) 82,000 for his release, while others reported similar experiences.
Point of View
It's imperative to approach this situation with sensitivity, recognizing the complexities involved. The actions taken by the Pakistani authorities reflect broader regional issues, and while security is essential, the humanitarian implications of these policies cannot be overlooked. Our commitment is to present the facts while advocating for humane treatment of all individuals.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason behind the crackdown on Afghan migrants?
The crackdown is part of a broader initiative by Pakistani authorities to address undocumented immigration and enhance security measures.
How are Afghan migrants being treated during this crackdown?
Many Afghan migrants have reported experiencing harassment, wrongful arrests, and demands for bribes from local police.
What measures are being taken to assist Afghan migrants?
The Pakistani government has formed a special committee to identify and repatriate Afghan migrants with Proof of Registration cards.
What has the UNHCR said regarding this situation?
The UNHCR has expressed concern over the policies affecting Afghan migrants, highlighting the risk of homelessness and humanitarian crises.
What impact does this crackdown have on Afghan migrants' livelihoods?
The ongoing crackdown jeopardizes the livelihoods of Afghan migrants, making them vulnerable to displacement and loss of income.
