Following a session of the National Apex Committee, significant decisions were reached concerning the economy, law and order, and other critical matters, Caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti announced that Pakistan has set a November 1 deadline for foreigners residing in the country illegally to depart.
Addressing a press conference following the National Apex Committee meeting, which was presided over by Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar, he stated that the government has issued a deadline for illegal immigrants in Pakistan to leave the country by November 1. After this date, the state will take robust measures to deport these individuals and confiscate their properties.
Bugti emphasised that the NAC has issued a stern warning to crack down on individuals involved in activities such as fraudulent identity cards, illegal businesses, referrals, smuggling, and other crimes. Furthermore, Sarfraz Bugti underlined that the use of force is the sole prerogative of the state, and no individual or group will be allowed to employ force.
The caretaker interior minister revealed the formation of a task force for operations against the properties of illegal residents. He also highlighted irregularities in the issuance of identity cards, promising strict action against those responsible. Bugti affirmed that no one would be permitted to impose an agenda through coercion. He stressed that decisive action has been taken against terrorists and those who threaten peace.
Declaration
A statement was issued following the National Apex Committee meeting, stating that participants conducted a comprehensive assessment of the country's internal security situation. They reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the implementation of the Constitution and the law, even in the face of challenges.
The statement further indicated that discussions in the meeting covered the evacuation of illegal aliens and the regulation of border movement. Stringent measures will be taken against trade and property related to illegal activities.
The committee established a task force to investigate fake identity cards, businesses, and properties. It reiterated the commitment to enhancing the effectiveness of ongoing operations against hoarding, currency smuggling, and electricity theft.
It further emphasised that the use of force is solely within the state's jurisdiction, and no individual or group, including political armed groups, will be tolerated. Stringent action will be taken against those involved in such activities.
The attendees also highlighted the importance of minority rights and religious freedom, emphasizing their inclusion in Islam and the Constitution. They committed to ensuring their implementation and addressing propaganda and misinformation.
The meeting also discussed technical procedures for raising awareness and implementing laws, with a continued focus on the country's development.
Life and property of Pakistanis come first, says the Army Chief
Chief of Army Staff of the Pakistan Army, General Asim Munir, addressed the National Apex Committee meeting, stressing the paramount importance of the lives, property, and welfare of Pakistanis. He emphasised that the well-being of Pakistanis should take precedence over any other consideration, and all cases will be protected.
Meeting Details
Prior to the National Apex Committee meeting, a session on the country's law and order situation was held under the leadership of Caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar. Attendees included Army Chief General Asim Munir, civil and military officials, heads of sensitive institutions, provincial IGs, and Chief Secretaries from all four provinces.
During the meeting, an extensive review of the country's law and order situation was conducted, along with discussions on the investigation of terrorist incidents. The meeting also addressed the implementation of the National Action Plan, measures to combat smuggling, and other key issues.
The committee expressed satisfaction with the ongoing operations against smugglers and hoarders nationwide. Concerns were raised regarding government personnel's involvement in smuggling, leading to a decision to scrutinize political and government officials engaged in such activities.
It was decided that no influential person would be exempted from investigation. The committee committed to closely monitoring Afghan transit trade to prevent smuggling and welcomed measures to stabilize the value of the dollar.
Before the Apex Committee meeting, the caretaker prime minister held discussions with the army chief, focusing on national security issues. The recent incidents of terrorism were strongly condemned during the meeting, and the expansion of intelligence-based operations against terrorists across the country was agreed upon.
