LAHORE:
The Punjab Home Minister and Inspector General of Police have ordered to expedite the evacuation of all illegal foreign nationals, including Afghan citizens, from the province,
Chairing a meeting, the officers said the police and district administrations should pursue a coordinated strategy to ensure immediate evacuation of all illegal foreign nationals from Punjab.
They said strict legal action would also be taken against those who provide shelter, employment or business facilities to illegal residents.
It was ordered that illegal residents be transferred to detention points and security devices remain on alert during their temporary stay.
The Home Minister has asked commissioners and deputy commissioners to ensure that appropriate arrangements are made for transport, accommodation and food for detention facilities.
The IG said intelligence-based information and data from the Special Branch, CTD and other security agencies should be fully utilized in the evacuation of illegal residents.
He also ordered that the screening and identification process be made more efficient through mapping, scanning and screening of illegal foreign nationals. He asked all commissioners, DCs and regional and district police officers to maintain effective coordination with concerned institutions during the evacuation drive.
A Punjab Police spokesperson said that with the help of district administrations, over 32,730 illegal foreign nationals were deported in the last 11 months, while 346 illegal residents were present in various detention points.
