The Rawalpindi police have intensified operations across the city against Afghan nationals and other foreign citizens residing without legal documents, registering 44 cases during the past 48 hours.
According to a police spokesperson on Thursday, nine property owners were arrested for renting out their houses to undocumented Afghan nationals. A total of 110 Afghan citizens were taken into custody and shifted to a holding centre.
Cases were registered at police stations including City, Pirwadhai, Waris Khan, Banni, New Town, Sadiqabad, R.A. Bazaar, Race Course, Chaklala, Airport, Civil Lines, Morgah, Naseerabad, Dhamial, Saddar Beruni, Wah Cantt, Wah Saddar, Taxila, Mandra, Jatli, Gujar Khan, Kallar Syedan and Rawat.
The spokesperson said strict implementation of the Punjab government’s directives was underway, and legal action would be taken against violators.
He urged citizens not to rent, sell or lease property, vehicles or other assets to foreign nationals staying in Pakistan without legal status, nor engage in business or employment with them. Foreign nationals residing legally must ensure their registration with the relevant police station.
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He also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and inform the authorities about any illegally residing foreigners, assuring that the identity of informants would be kept confidential.
Public awareness messages are being disseminated through social media and mosque announcements, the spokesperson added.
