Law-enforcement agencies (LEAs) have arrested 36 illegal Afghan nationals during an ongoing crackdown across multiple cities in Punjab, reaffirming the government’s zero-tolerance policy toward undocumented foreigners, according to a report by 24NewsHD.
Multi-City Operations Across Punjab and Islamabad
According to official details, operations were conducted in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Chakwal, and Murree, where security personnel detained undocumented Afghan nationals and recovered a large cache of illegal weapons, narcotics, and Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs) from those arrested.
Authorities stated that the state has sent a clear message that only legally documented individuals will be permitted to reside in Pakistan, and enforcement actions will continue without discrimination.
Joint Search-and-Combing Operations
Earlier, on February 23, 2026, joint search-and-comb operations were carried out by Pakistan Police, Pakistan Rangers, the Counter Terrorism Department, and intelligence agencies across Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum, and Chakwal. Security around mosques was also tightened as a precautionary measure.
In Islamabad’s Tarnol, Ittihad Colony, and nearby areas, around 150 police officers, including 12 lady police officers, were deployed alongside CTD personnel, 15 Rangers, and intelligence staff. During the operation:
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165 houses were searched
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26 vehicles and 48 motorcycles were checked
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570 individuals were screened
Rawalpindi and Chakwal Actions
In Rawalpindi’s Dhok Kashmirian and surrounding localities within Sadiqabad Police Station limits, authorities inspected 50 houses, 15 vehicles, and 10 motorcycles and verified the documents of 120 individuals.
Eleven individuals found without proper rental agreements were released after registration instructions and formal warnings.
Meanwhile, in Chakwal, LEAs searched 47 houses and shops, checked documents of 98 individuals, and ensured the participation of lady police officers during the operation.
Zero Tolerance Policy Reiterated
Law enforcement agencies have directed all relevant officials to strictly enforce a zero-tolerance policy against illegal Afghan nationals, vowing to continue intelligence-based operations to ensure public safety and uphold immigration laws across Punjab and the federal capital.
