The Government of Punjab has ordered the registration of FIRs against those renting out properties to foreign nationals, including Afghan citizens. The decision was made during the sixth consecutive security meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
During the meeting, instructions were issued to make announcements in mosques to help identify undocumented Afghan residents. Authorities also sought daily reports on properties such as houses, shops, factories, hotels, and petrol pumps rented out to foreigners.
Patwaris, village heads, and SHOs have been made responsible for reporting properties rented to foreigners. It was further decided to conduct field surveys across all districts to identify undocumented foreign nationals.
The government also resolved to take legal action against foreigners working illegally or on visit visas, including Afghan citizens residing unlawfully in Pakistan. It was made clear that strict action will be taken against anyone renting out property to foreign nationals. Reports on benami and suspicious properties were also requested.
Officials briefed the meeting that 45 holding centers have been established for Afghan nationals in various districts of the province. Accommodation, meals, and transportation to the Torkham Border are being provided to those being repatriated. Advanced facial recognition technology is being used to identify Afghan residents.
Authorities also informed that a crackdown on illegal weapons is underway. Social media activists promoting extremist groups have been detained, and after necessary legal procedures, seminaries across Punjab are being reopened.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif directed that strict action be taken against those responsible, but ensured that no innocent person is affected.
