Authorities have decided to launch a nationwide crackdown against foreigners, including Afghan nationals, possessing fake Pakistani identity cards, official sources said on Wednesday.

According to sources, the Ministry of Interior has directed the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) and law enforcement agencies to prepare a joint strategy for identifying and prosecuting fake CNIC holders.

Lists of individuals found in possession of forged identity documents are already being compiled.

Under the plan, fake CNICs will be cancelled, and those found guilty will face fines and arrest.

Operations will be carried out in coordination with law enforcement agencies based on verified intelligence, the sources added.

5,154 Afghans repatriated from Rawalpindi

Meanwhile, data obtained by Aaj News reveals that a total of 5,154 Afghan nationals were repatriated from Rawalpindi during the ongoing verification and deportation process.

Of these, 2,817 were without valid documents, 232 had expired visas, and 22 held invalid refugee cards.

According to official documents, 1,394 individuals possessed PoR (Proof of Registration) cards, while 665 were ACC (Afghan Citizen Card) holders.

After verification, 1,027 people were released, while 185 remained in holding centres.

In the first ten months of the year, 3,942 undocumented Afghans have been deported, official data shows.

Crackdown on illegal Afghan settlements in Balochistan

In Quetta and other parts of Balochistan, operations to clear illegal Afghan settlements have intensified, prompting many families — some residing in the province for over four decades — to begin dismantling their homes and preparing for return.

Speaking to Aaj News, Afghan residents said they were cooperating with the authorities but expressed uncertainty about the future as they sold their remaining belongings before departure.

Officials said the repatriation process has accelerated following the recent ceasefire agreement along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, with thousands of undocumented Afghans opting for voluntary return.