The district administration on Sunday launched a decisive operation at the Ichrian Camp, demolishing slum houses built by Afghan refugees as part of a broader government-led initiative aimed at ensuring the timely and orderly repatriation of Afghan nationals to their native country.
According to officials, the action was taken in compliance with explicit government directives to reclaim land occupied by de-notified Afghan refugee camps across the district. “In pursuance of government orders to take possession of land occupied by Afghan refugees’ camps, all illegal slum structures at Ichrian Camp have been demolished,” a senior district administration official told reporters.
The operation was carried out by a joint team comprising the district administration, local police, and officials from the Afghan Refugees Department. The team was led by Assistant Commissioner Baffa-Pakhal, Mohammad Faraz Qureshi. Dozens of makeshift houses were razed during the operation, marking a significant step in the enforcement of the federal government’s repatriation policy.
Eyewitnesses reported that officials also engaged directly with Afghan families still residing at the camp. Family heads were urged to voluntarily return to Afghanistan in order to avoid further administrative or legal action. Authorities informed the residents that their continued stay in the district beyond the deadline set by the federal government was illegal and constituted a violation of applicable laws.
The federal government has formally de-notified all Afghan refugee camps established in Hazara Division and other parts of the country, directing remaining residents to return to their homeland. In line with this policy, the district administration confirmed that similar demolition operations would be carried out in Afghan refugee camps located in Barari and Khaki within the coming days.
Officials further stated that Afghan nationals continuing to reside in the district despite the revocation of their legal status have been warned to leave the country without further delay. As part of the enforcement drive, the administration has also sealed dozens of shops reportedly owned, operated, or occupied by Afghan nationals in various parts of the district.
In addition, owners of shops, business centers, and residential properties rented to Afghan nationals have been directed to reclaim their properties immediately. Authorities warned that failure to comply with these instructions could result in legal action under relevant laws.
Meanwhile, the district administration has also convened jirgas with Afghan nationals still residing in the area in violation of the Foreigners Act. During these meetings, officials reiterated the government’s position and urged affected individuals to voluntarily repatriate before the launch of a full-scale crackdown.
The administration emphasized that the ongoing measures are being implemented strictly in accordance with federal policy and the rule of law, with the objective of restoring state land, enforcing legal frameworks, and ensuring compliance with national directives.
