As the deadline for illegal immigrants to leave the country looms just one week away, the Sindh government has extended a hand to those foreigners seeking to return to their countries of origin voluntarily. Home Minister Brig (retd) Haris Nawaz and Balochistan Information Minister Jaan Achakzai jointly addressed a press conference at the Karachi Press Club to outline the impending actions.
During the press conference, Home Minister Haris Nawaz emphasized that the deadline for illegal residents to depart the country voluntarily is October 31. He warned that starting from November 1, strict actions will be taken against unregistered foreign nationals remaining in the country.
Nawaz also made it clear that the provincial government is fully prepared to facilitate the migrants in their journey back to their respective home countries. He emphasized that the government possesses comprehensive data on all illegal residents and rejected the notion that this operation is targeted against any specific nationality. It is a measure to address all illegal foreign nationals residing in Pakistan.
Balochistan Information Minister Jaan Achakzai added that illegal foreigners have just one week left to leave the country voluntarily. He assured that the Balochistan government has established exit points and camps to assist in the evacuation process. Those migrants who refuse to leave will face arrest and prosecution.
Achakzai pointed out that the state’s concern primarily revolves around illegal residents who may be involved in illicit activities. He urged political parties to refrain from patronizing illegal residents, as such actions would be considered anti-state. Additionally, he emphasized that blocking highways will not be tolerated in the province, and tribal disputes will be resolved through traditional tribal mechanisms.
Moreover, Achakzai disclosed that a meeting with the Sindh Interior Minister took place to discuss the issue of illegal foreigners. Both provinces are committed to making joint efforts for the safe evacuation of illegal residents. He reassured that the coastal highway and entry-exit points will be made secure.
Furthermore, Achakzai asserted that the operation against the smuggling of Iranian petroleum products and Afghan goods will continue, reinforcing the government’s commitment to maintaining the country’s security and integrity.
As the deadline approaches, it remains to be seen how many illegal immigrants will choose to return to their home countries with the assistance provided by the Sindh government and whether they will meet the October 31 deadline.
