KOHAT: At a jirga held with Afghan maliks and elders here on Thursady, the district police conveyed to them that all illegal residents must leave the country voluntarily within the set deadline to avoid law and order situation.

ASP headquarters Baydar Bakhsh while addressing them made it clear that they had been given last chance of repatriation under an unambiguous definite policy, stressing that the government writ would be strictly implemented.

He said after the final date legal action would be taken against them by arresting them, however all conveyance and documentation help will be provided to them.

He added that every cooperation would be extended to them so that the whole process was completed in a disciplined, coordinated and peaceful manner.

He said they could re-visit Pakistan after getting a visa from their country.

Meanwhile, the district administration Kohat launched strict measures to prevent encroachments in and around the Afghan refugee camps.

To curb illegal activities, Section 144 has been imposed on state and provincial properties, prohibiting encroachments.

The move comes as part of efforts to facilitate the orderly repatriation of undocumented residents, deputy commissioner Rahimullah said.

Authorities have emphasised that ownership, trespass or unauthorised use of land within the camps is strictly banned.

The administration warned that any violation will trigger immediate legal action, underscoring that public assets and the rule of law would be rigorously protected.

The citizens have also been urged to cooperate to ensure the repatriation process is conducted efficiently in a transparent manner.

Published in Dawn, January 23rd, 2026