LAHORE: The Punjab caretaker government has deported over 15,000 illegal foreign immigrants so far in the province.

“Crackdown on illegal foreigners in Punjab has been intensified, leading to the repatriation of 15,533 individuals so far,” a meeting heard, attended by caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi, here on Friday.

The government has launched a crackdown on illegal foreign residents, mostly Afghan nationals, since Nov 1 after a deadline for their voluntary return expired.

Inspector General of Police Dr Usman Anwar briefed the meeting on ongoing operations against illegal aliens.Meanwhile, Mr Naqvi issued a directive to expedite the arrest of fugitive suspects on May 9 and another directive to initiate a crackdown on underage drivers and those without a valid license.

Published in Dawn, November 18th, 2023