166 more undocumented aliens shifted to holding camp

During the ongoing crackdown on illegal residents in Karachi, 166 more undocumented immigrants on Sunday were moved to the holding camp set up in the city.

The illegal aliens were taken to the holding centre from District East of the city. Police officials also presented flower garlands and bouquets to children. “I was a minor when I came to Pakistan,” an Afghan national told the media on the occasion, “and now, 40 years later, I’m returning.”

He said his grandparents and parents had also come to Pakistan. “I’m happy about the way we’re being sent off. I’m grateful to all the institutions, including the police, for the respect they’ve shown us. We’ve always received love in Pakistan.”

A total of 384 immigrants illegally residing in Karachi who were detained during the ongoing crackdown on undocumented foreigners were sent to the Chaman border for repatriation to their country of origin in the first four days of the operation.

“A total of 384 aliens have been sent to Chaman in four days,” South Zone police chief DIG Asad Raza told The News: 112 were sent on the first day, 154 on the second day, and 59 each on the following two days.

The authorities claimed that the best facilities are being provided to all the incoming immigrants at the holding centres. They said that some changes have been made by setting up another holding centre because of overcrowding at the first holding camp.

They also said that the documents of Afghans would be checked at Camp-2, and those who have documents would be released from there, while those without documents would be taken to Camp-1. Nearly 70 illegal residents are currently at Camp-1, they added.

On the other hand, minor changes have been made in the practical implementation of the crackdown on illegal foreigners, as orders have been issued against arresting those holding proof of residence or Afghan citizen cards.

Only those individuals are to be sent to the holding camp who do not possess any legal documentation. Police have been instructed to follow these orders until December 31. After receiving the new directives, police actions in the city have also been modified.