Punjab continues crackdown against unlawful foreign nationals, nearly 36,000 deported

The Punjab government has continued the process of deporting foreign people living illegally in the state with police claiming to have deported around 36,500 so far.

A total of 36,545 Afghan nationals and other unauthorised foreign residents have been deported from all throughout the province, including Lahore, a spokesperson for Punjab Police said.

There are also 504 people at holding points awaiting further action.

Police figures show that of those deported, 14,614 were men, 7,234 women and 14,697 children. These included 11,124 persons with Proof of Registration documents, 11,137 Afghan Citizen Card holders and 14,284 foreigners who were found to be illegally staying in the country.

Punjab Inspector General of Police Abdul Karim said security measures have been increased across the province to help the deportation process.

“Punjab Police is implementing the policy for removal of undocumented foreign nationals as per international laws and procedures,” he added.