Shamim Shahid
PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police have intensified action against Afghan nationals across the province, particularly in Peshawar, amid renewed tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
According to sources, raids on rented houses, shops and markets have become routine, with police and other law enforcement agencies detaining Afghan nationals and shifting them to police stations for further processing and deportation. The crackdown reportedly gathered pace following recent armed clashes between security forces of the two countries and the temporary closure of border crossings, including Torkham.
Video messages circulating on social media purportedly show instructions to police officials to tighten enforcement measures. It is being claimed that police stations have been assigned daily targets for detentions, though officials have not publicly confirmed such directives.
Members of the Afghan community say fear of arrest has confined many families to their homes. Some allege that adults and teenagers are being detained, and in certain cases women have also been taken into custody. There are complaints that detainees face difficulties contacting relatives and arranging basic necessities.
Observers note that many Afghan nationals have lived in Pakistan for decades, running small businesses and maintaining close social ties with local communities. Critics of the ongoing operation argue that while repatriation may be a state policy decision, it should be carried out in a humane and orderly manner, allowing families reasonable time to settle affairs.
They also stress the need to ensure compliance with international norms relating to migration and asylum, and to avoid creating hardship during the holy month of Ramazan.
Officials maintain that measures are being taken in accordance with government directives and security considerations. The situation remains fluid as authorities continue enforcement actions across the province.
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