Pakistan Detains 121 Afghan Nationals in Lahore Immigration Operation

Pakistan Detains 121 Afghan Nationals in Lahore Immigration Operation
————————–
Pakistani authorities have detained 121 Afghan nationals during an immigration enforcement operation in Lahore, with 28 later released after officials verified their legal residency documents.

The remaining 93 individuals, who authorities said lacked valid permission to stay in Pakistan, were transferred to a holding center pending further legal proceedings.

The operation is part of Pakistan’s broader campaign against undocumented foreign nationals, which has resulted in the detention and deportation of large numbers of Afghans since late 2023. Pakistani officials say the measures are aimed at enforcing immigration laws and strengthening national security.

The crackdown has faced criticism from the United Nations and human rights organizations, which have called on Pakistan to ensure that deportations follow international standards and protect the rights of refugees and asylum seekers.

The increased returns of Afghans from neighboring countries have placed additional pressure on humanitarian services in Afghanistan, where millions continue to face economic hardship, food insecurity, and limited access to basic services. Pakistan remains home to one of the world’s largest Afghan refugee populations, including communities that have lived there for decades.