ISLAMABAD: The repatriation of illegal immigrants, predominantly Afghans, to their home country has continued, with a total of 207,758 individuals returning as of November 9.

Just yesterday, 4,119 illegal Afghan immigrants made their way back to Afghanistan, and this daily return trend remains consistent. The returnees are mainly using the Chaman and Torkham border crossings to Afghanistan.

These returning immigrants include women and children who are provided with free transport services from the Landi Kotal holding camp to the Torkham border, connecting Pakistan and Afghanistan. Additionally, 2,975 illegal immigrants were repatriated through Angor Ada in South Waziristan. Authorities are actively encouraging voluntary repatriation.

In a related development, Pakistan has decided to extend the stay of registered Afghan refugees in the country by six months. The caretaker federal cabinet approved this extension, granting relief to POR (Proof of Registration) card-holder Afghan refugees, whose term expired on June 30, 2023. This extension will now be in effect until December 31, benefiting registered Afghans and their families.