Over 5,200 Afghan Nationals Repatriated via Torkham Border, Says Pakistan

Pakistan repatriated at least 5,236 Afghan nationals through the Torkham border crossing on Thursday, according to immigration authorities, as part of an ongoing nationwide crackdown on undocumented foreign nationals.

Of the total repatriated, 3,865 individuals voluntarily arrived at the Landi Kotal transit camp, while another 107 Afghan nationals, previously detained in Punjab, were transported to the Torkham crossing for deportation. Authorities also confirmed that 295 Afghans were deported from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

In a press briefing held in Islamabad, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry emphasized that Afghan nationals are being repatriated “in a dignified manner.” He said transit facilities are being set up across all provinces to support the process, and a dedicated helpline has been launched for Afghan citizens.

Chaudhry reiterated that the March 31 deadline for the departure of undocumented foreign nationals and Afghan Citizen Card holders would not be extended. He confirmed that a total of 857,157 individuals have been repatriated so far, including those lacking legal documents.

The minister also outlined the government’s phased repatriation strategy. The first phase targeted undocumented foreign nationals, while the second focuses on Afghan Citizen Card holders. The third and final phase will include Afghan nationals holding Proof of Registration (PoR) cards.

Chaudhry said Pakistan’s one-document regime — requiring valid passports and visas for entry — will now be strictly enforced. Under this policy, Afghan citizens can legally enter, work, and reside in Pakistan only with proper documentation.

He further defended the policy shift, stating that Pakistan had hosted millions of Afghan refugees for decades but was compelled to act due to emerging security concerns. He claimed that some Afghan nationals were found involved in narcotics trafficking and terrorism-related activities, and that proceeds from these activities were being funneled into criminal networks.

According to official figures, 815,247 Afghans are registered as Citizen Card holders, while 1,469,522 are documented under the PoR system.