The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has handed over a list of 2,139 Afghan nationals whose Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs) have been cancelled to the Punjab government after verifying official records.
The move is part of the government’s ongoing campaign to repatriate illegal foreign nationals.
The sources revealed that action followed a review of NADRA’s national database, after which the records were shared with the Punjab authorities for further legal and administrative steps.
Repatriation process faces challenges due to closure of Torkham Border crossing
Meanwhile, the repatriation process has faced logistical challenges due to the closure of the Torkham Border Crossing. Authorities have therefore decided to use an alternative route for deportations.
Afghan nationals identified during the verification process have been shifted to jails and designated holding centres while arrangements are being finalised for their return to Afghanistan.
Punjab Home Secretary Dr Ahmed Qazi said that the repatriation process will begin once security arrangements for transporting Afghan nationals from Punjab to the border are completed.
Details of Afghan nations send to Punjab Home Department
According to government officials, the details of these Afghan nationals were sent to the Punjab Home Secretary through an official letter issued by NADRA’s regional headquarters in Lahore.
After conducting a comprehensive screening of NADRA’s national database, the records of 2,139 individuals were compiled and provided to the Punjab Home Department.
Confirming the development, Dr Ahmed Qazi said that the Afghan nationals identified during the verification process are currently either in jails or in holding centres established for undocumented foreigners.
Previously, Afghan nationals from Punjab were transported via the Jafarabad district of Sindh to the city of Chaman in Balochistan before being repatriated.
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