Illegally residing foreign nationals: Strict action against landlords, businesses directed

ISLAMABAD: Authorities have accelerated repatriation of illegally residing foreign nationals and directed strict legal action against landlords and businesses facilitating their stay, as a Special Task Force reviewed enforcement measures in Islamabad and adjoining districts.

The decisions were taken in meeting chaired by Chief Commissioner Islamabad and Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa. The meeting was attended by IG Islamabad Police Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, Deputy Commissioner Islamabad Irfan Nawaz Memon, officials from Rawalpindi, Attock, Haripur, and Murree districts via Zoom, along with representatives from the Ministry of Interior, NADRA, PTA, and other relevant departments.

Officials briefed the meeting that repatriation of illegal foreign nationals is continuing at an accelerated pace, with a significant number returning voluntarily. Authorities are registering FIRs against landlords providing accommodation and business owners offering commercial space to individuals residing illegally. Legal proceedings are also being initiated against unlawful residents under relevant laws.

The meeting was informed that district-level data is being integrated with the Ministry of Interior’s central dashboard to ensure coordinated monitoring and enforcement. Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) officials stated that SIM cards issued to illegally residing individuals are being blocked.

Randhawa reaffirmed the government’s resolve to take effective action in accordance with the law, stating that coordinated and sustained efforts are underway to address illegal immigration and ensure national security and stability.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026