KARACHI: Around 4,000 Afghan nationals illegally staying in Karachi have returned back to home, Sindh’s Home Minister said. Haris Nawaz, talking to media said that illegal Afghan immigrants in batches of 300 to 400 will be sent to Chaman Border crossing within two to three days. October 31 is fixed by government as last day of immigrants illegally staying in Pakistan to leave voluntarily.

Home Minister said that illegal immigrants will not be kept in country for more days. “An operation will be launched against illegal immigrants from today,” caretaker Minister said.

“Pakistan has host Afghan brethren for long time,” he stated. “Those staying legally in country, wouldn’t have any problem. Those without travel papers will be sent back to their country,” he said.

“There are 170,000 Afghan citizens in Sindh, around one lac in Karachi,” Nawaz said. He said that illegally staying Indian and Bangladeshi citizens will be sent back to their countries by trains.

“Crackdown will be launched against those who won’t leave country voluntarily,” he said. “Those harbouring illegal immigrants would also face legal consequences,” caretaker Minister said.

Government has setup refugee camps in KP and Balochistan with arrangements of food, medical treatment and other basic necessities.

Published in The Daily National Courier, November, 01 2023

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