Mass detention of migrants worries Afghan embassy

KABUL (Pajhwok): The Afghan embassy has expressed concern over the detention of approximately 800 Afghan nationals in Islamabad and called for urgently addressing the issue.

Pakistani security agencies have reportedly been conducting house-to-house searches in various parts of Islamabad over the past three days.

During the raids, many Afghan migrants have been detained and transferred to security centres.

In a statement on X, the Afghan embassy voiced its deep concern at the detention of about 800 Afghan nationals, including individuals with valid visas, PoR and ACC cards.

The statement noted the lack of clarity regarding the process of obtaining a no-objection certificate had led to troubling arbitrary detentions and expulsions.

“Out of those expelled, 137 individuals had their visas expired after applying for renewal,” the source said.

Individuals registered under the SHARP/UNHCR temporary registration system are included in the deported group.

“This situation has led to family separations, including women and children, many of whom are still stranded in Pakistan."

It said: "The Afghan embassy is particularly concerned about reports of unnecessary detentions, house searches and confiscation of Afghan nationals’ properties. We urge the Pakistani government to address these serious concerns urgently."

The embassy officially shared the concerns with the relevant Pakistani authorities and called on UNHCR and human rights organisations to intervene immediately in this matter.

The statement added that safeguarding the dignity, rights and safety of Afghan nationals residing in Pakistan was essential.

A month ago, Pakistan’s interior minister had announced after December 31, 2024, no Afghan migrant would have the right to live in Islamabad without a no-objection certificate.

sa/mud