Joint security sweep nets illegal Afghan residents across multiple cities

ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) - Security forces carried out a large-scale search and combing operation across Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Chakwal and Murree against illegal Afghan residents.

In Islamabad, joint operations were conducted in G-9, Peshawar Mor and surrounding areas. A total of 317 houses, 93 shops, 27 hotels and guest houses, 59 vehicles and 39 motorcycles were checked. Seven suspects and four illegal Afghan nationals were arrested during the operation.

In Rawalpindi, search operations were carried out in multiple localities including Pir Wadhai, Awan Town and Misrial Road. Authorities checked 235 houses, 63 individuals, 25 vehicles and 42 motorcycles. Several illegal Afghan nationals and individuals carrying fake identity cards were taken into custody, while 19 more were arrested from different police station areas.

Operations were also conducted in various parts of Jhelum and Chakwal, where houses and informal settlements were searched. Arrests were made for harbouring illegal foreign nationals and violating tenancy laws. An absconding suspect was also detained in Jhelum and an illegal rifle recovered.

In Murree, police and intelligence agencies jointly inspected 50 houses, 95 vehicles and 20 individuals.

The coordinated operation involved Rangers, Elite Force, CTD, Dolphin Squad and intelligence agencies, with 368 personnel deployed under an integrated operational framework.

Authorities said strict screening of illegal Afghan nationals, verification of residential records and tenancy agreements was conducted. Illegal weapons and narcotics were also seized.

Security agencies reiterated that operations against illegal foreign nationals would continue until all areas are cleared of unlawful residents.