Crackdown Begins in Karachi Against Illegal Afghan Nationals

Karachi — In line with the federal government’s latest directives, the Karachi Police have launched a city-wide crackdown targeting Afghan nationals residing illegally in the metropolis. The operation, which began on Friday, is part of a broader nationwide repatriation campaign underway across Pakistan.

Following the orders of SSP Central, multiple teams under the New Karachi Police carried out raids and apprehended several undocumented Afghan nationals. SHO Faiz Shah confirmed that the identities and records of the detained individuals are being thoroughly scrutinized.

“We’re verifying the backgrounds of all the arrested individuals. Some of their details have already been shared by the Afghan government and have been passed on to senior authorities,” said SHO Shah.

He added that this operation will continue on a daily basis and that all individuals residing illegally, including those living with Afghan Citizen Card holders, will be subject to repatriation.

Background: Why the Crackdown?

This crackdown comes as part of Pakistan’s renewed nationwide push to repatriate illegal Afghan migrants, following the expiration of an official deadline set by the Interior Ministry.

The move was prompted by rising concerns over undocumented immigrants—particularly in light of security, demographic, and economic challenges linked to unregulated cross-border movement.

The federal government, in coordination with provincial authorities, has directed law enforcement agencies to identify and deport all Afghan nationals without legal documentation, including those overstaying visas or using expired Afghan Citizen Cards.

What’s New in the Latest Campaign?

• Afghan nationals living without proper documentation or with expired stay permits are being detained and repatriated.
• Those living under the protection of documented Afghan Citizen Card holders are also being targeted this time—marking an expansion in the scope of enforcement.
• Provincial governments have been given full authority to carry out operations and ensure timely deportation.

The Bigger Picture

The renewed crackdown is part of Pakistan’s broader policy shift on Afghan refugees, especially in the aftermath of the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan in August 2021. Since then, thousands of Afghan citizens have crossed into Pakistan—many without proper papers.

While Pakistan has historically hosted millions of Afghan refugees for decades, growing internal pressures and regional instability have pushed Islamabad to tighten immigration controls and re-evaluate its refugee management policies.

What’s Next?

Authorities have reiterated that this is not a one-time operation, and raids will continue in Karachi and other urban centers. The Ministry of Interior has urged all illegal Afghan residents to voluntarily return to their home country or face legal consequences under Pakistan’s immigration laws.