Punjab Announces Huge Cash Reward for Reporting Illegal Afghans: The Punjab government has recently intensified efforts to identify and remove Afghan nationals living or working in the province without proper legal documentation. This crackdown aims not only to monitor undocumented residents but also to target illegal business operations run by Afghans.
In a new twist, authorities have introduced a financial incentive to encourage citizens to actively participate in the initiative. Individuals providing verified information about undocumented Afghans or unlawful business activities will be rewarded with Rs. 10,000 per report.
Who Is Targeted in the Campaign?
The operation focuses on several groups of Afghan nationals and associated parties, including:
- Afghan residents without valid legal documentation.
- Individuals running businesses unlawfully in Punjab.
- Persons using forged Pakistani CNICs.
- Landlords or shop owners renting properties to undocumented Afghans.
- Afghans engaged in commercial activities on tourist or medical visas.
This multi-pronged approach ensures that both direct violations and supportive enablers are addressed under the law.
How the Reward System Works
To ensure public participation, Punjab Police have implemented the reward system with strict confidentiality measures. Key points include:
- Every verified tip leading to action will receive Rs. 10,000.
- Identities of informants are fully protected.
- Station House Officers (SHOs) are instructed to release rewards immediately after verification.
This approach encourages citizens to report illegal activity without fear of reprisal, strengthening the overall effectiveness of the campaign.
Recent Statistics on Afghan Deportations
Recent reports indicate a significant increase in arrests and deportations of Afghan nationals in Pakistan:
- Arrests of Afghan residents rose by nearly 150% since early November.
- 7,764 Afghans were detained in just a few days, with the highest numbers in Chaghi, Attock, and Quetta.
- 37,448 individuals were deported or left voluntarily during this period.
- Among those deported, 47% held Proof of Registration (PoR) cards, while 44% had no documents, and overall 93% were living without lawful status.
These numbers highlight the scale and urgency of the government’s ongoing enforcement efforts.
Why the Punjab Government Launched This Initiative
The Punjab government’s crackdown and reward program serve multiple purposes:
- Ensuring Legal Compliance: Enforcing residency and business regulations for all Afghan nationals.
- Reducing Illegal Activities: Preventing unauthorized businesses and forged identification usage.
- Encouraging Public Cooperation: Incentivizing citizens to support law enforcement in maintaining order.
By offering financial rewards, authorities aim to make the public a proactive part of this national security effort.
How Citizens Can Participate
Residents of Punjab can contribute by reporting:
- Afghan nationals living without valid documentation.
- Unlawful businesses or commercial operations run by Afghan citizens.
- Landlords or shopkeepers knowingly providing spaces to undocumented individuals.
All tips should be submitted to the local police stations, where they will be investigated promptly and confidentially.
Conclusion
The Punjab government’s new cash reward program is a decisive step toward regulating undocumented Afghan residents and illegal business operations. With an emphasis on citizen participation, confidentiality, and immediate action, the initiative is set to strengthen legal compliance and public safety across the province.
