Did Delhi Police Uncover 548 Foreign Nationals Illegally Residing in 2025?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, Jan 8 (NationPress) In a significant operation in 2025, the Delhi Police identified 548 foreign nationals residing illegally in the national capital and commenced their deportation process, as reported by officials on Thursday.
According to official statistics, the majority of cases were managed by the Foreigners Cell, which identified 318 individuals. This was followed by Nihal Vihar police station with 134 cases and Mundka with 87 cases. Additional police stations involved in this operation included Rani Bagh (one), Ranhola (five), Paschim Vihar East (one), and Cyber Police Station (two).
The detained foreign nationals hailed from various countries, with the largest group being from Bangladesh at 380, followed by Nigeria with 111. Other nationalities included Ivory Coast (17), Ghana (13), Senegal (10), Cameroon (10), Niger (two), and one each from Liberia, Russia, Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Gambia.
Officials confirmed that all individuals were found to be overstaying in the Outer District without valid visas or documentation. After being apprehended, they were presented before the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), which issued orders for their deportation.
Consequently, all foreign nationals were transferred to detention centres, where they will await the completion of deportation processes.
The Deputy Commissioner of Police (Outer District) stated that the police have been proactively addressing the issue of foreign nationals overstaying without valid visas. This operation was conducted under the guidance of Sachin Sharma, DCP, Outer District, as part of a continued initiative to enhance security and prevent unauthorized residency in the district.
Throughout the year, the Outer District Police remained alert and actively sought out foreign nationals residing in the area without proper travel or residency documentation. Specialized teams from various police stations and operational units were instrumental in this initiative.
Illegal migration poses serious challenges in India, impacting national security, socioeconomic factors, and demographics, which include resource strains, potential political instability, increased human trafficking, and land conflicts, particularly concerning border areas and specific migrant groups such as Rohingyas and Bangladeshis.