Caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Bugti said on Tuesday a significant crackdown on illegal migrants, beginning on November 2.
In his statement, Bugti stressed the strict monitoring and apprehension of foreign individuals residing in the country without proper registration or documents, set to commence on November 2. He also mentioned that these migrants will be relocated to temporary centres where essential needs like medical care and accommodation would be provided.
Bugti reassured the public that these centres would offer all the necessary facilities for illegal foreign nationals. Furthermore, he explained that the process of deporting illegal foreign nationals will be carried out in stages, starting with those without valid travel documents. Bugti stated that all provincial governments will actively participate in this operation against illegal foreigners, with committees established at divisional and district levels.
The minister also made it clear that the government will determine the deportation criteria for "undocumented migrants." He encouraged illegal migrants in Pakistan to voluntarily return to their home countries to avoid mass arrests and forced deportations.
– No pressure –
Bugti on Monday made it clear that there was no pressure on the government to expel illegal foreign nationals.
Addressing a press conference while briefing the cabinet meeting on Monday, he said that the government’s stance on dealing with illegal individuals engaging in business activities.
The interim minister emphasized that strict legal actions for doing business with illegal immigrants and renting out homes, and they would be prosecuted under the Foreign Act.
