Punjab Introduces Major Cash Incentive for Information on Undocumented Afghans.

The Punjab government has launched a large-scale crackdown on Afghan nationals living or working in the province without legal documentation, and this time, the campaign includes a financial incentive for informants.

Officials say the operation targets Afghans residing in the province without valid papers, those running businesses unlawfully, and individuals found using forged Pakistani identity cards (CNICs). The drive also extends to landlords and shopkeepers who rent out homes or commercial spaces to Afghan citizens lacking legal residency.

Authorities further clarified that Afghan nationals engaging in business activities while holding only tourist or medical visas will also face action. To encourage public cooperation, the government has introduced a reward of Rs. 10,000 for each verified tip-off about undocumented Afghan residents or illegal business operations.

According to sources, the Punjab police have implemented this reward system to ensure the campaign’s effectiveness. Police officials have guaranteed that the identity of anyone providing information will remain confidential. The Inspector General of Police has also instructed all Station House Officers (SHOs) to immediately release the prize money to citizens whose reports lead to action.

Punjab Police have urged residents to support the operation and have assured them of swift follow-up on all credible information.

Recent statistics show a significant rise in arrests of Afghan nationals across Pakistan, an increase of nearly 150 percent since early November. In the past few days alone, authorities detained 7,764 Afghans, with the highest numbers of arrests occurring in Chaghi, Attock, and Quetta.

During the same period, departures and deportations surged to 37,448 individuals. Officials noted that 47 percent of those returning had Proof of Registration (PoR) cards, while 44 percent had no documents at all. Overall, 93 percent of those deported were found to be living in Pakistan without lawful status.