Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz chaired the sixth meeting on law and order, where the provincial government decided to take decisive measures against foreigners residing illegally in the province, particularly Afghan nationals.
During the meeting, the chief minister ordered immediate registration of FIRs against individuals who rent out houses, shops, factories, hotels, or petrol pumps to illegal foreigners. She emphasized that all such activities must be strictly monitored and reported.
Daily reporting and mosque announcements
It was decided that patwaris, numberdars, and SHOs will be responsible for submitting daily reports of properties rented to foreigners. To aid identification, mosque announcements will be used to locate illegally residing Afghan nationals across Punjab.
Maryam Nawaz instructed authorities to conduct field surveys in all districts to identify foreigners staying without valid documentation and to take legal action against those working on visit visas or without authorization.
45 holding centres set up for Afghan citizens
During the briefing, officials informed that five cases have already been registered in Khanewal against individuals who rented properties to illegal Afghans. The province has established 45 holding centres to accommodate Afghan citizens awaiting repatriation.
These centres provide temporary shelter, food, and transport facilities to the Torkham border. Authorities are using modern facial recognition technology to help identify Afghan residents living illegally in Punjab.
Maryam Nawaz directed that the data of Afghan residents be verified and updated and that accurate records be maintained to ensure effective implementation of the law.
Broader law enforcement measures across Punjab
The meeting also reviewed the campaign against illegal weapons and urged citizens to report violations to the Crime Control Department (CCD). Officials noted that social media activists promoting extremist groups have also come under legal scrutiny.
It was informed that after completing the necessary legal process, the de-sealing of madrassas across Punjab has begun. The chief minister instructed that while offenders must be held accountable, no innocent person should be wrongfully targeted.
Third phase of Afghan evacuation continues
According to a police report, the third phase of evacuating illegal Afghan residents from Lahore is underway. So far, 374 people have been shifted to detention centres, while 1,908 suspects have been checked in operations conducted since April 20.
Police said eight markets and fourteen residential areas have been searched. A total of 347 Afghan nationals have been deported, and 4,098 have returned voluntarily. Authorities added that the third phase of evacuation will be completed soon.
