Pakistan begins mass deportation of undocumented Afghan migrants over security concerns

Islamabad announced the repatriation of several thousand undocumented migrants, citing national security concerns as the primary justification. The Ministry of Interior said the individuals, many of whom had entered Pakistan irregularly from neighboring Afghanistan and other South Asian nations, were detained at border checkpoints and immigration facilities after a security review identified potential risks associated with their presence. Officials emphasized that the decision aligns with Pakistan’s broader effort to tighten border controls and prevent infiltration by extremist elements, noting that the migrants were processed in accordance with existing immigration laws before being escorted back to their countries of origin.

Human rights groups have called for transparent procedures and the provision of due process for those affected, warning that abrupt expulsions could expose vulnerable individuals to further hardship. The United Nations refugee agency, while acknowledging Pakistan’s sovereign right to enforce security measures, urged the government to ensure that returns comply with international standards and to consider alternative solutions for those facing persecution. The repatriations underscore the delicate balance the Pakistani authorities seek to maintain between safeguarding national security and upholding humanitarian obligations.