The repatriation of foreign nationals, including Afghans, residing illegally in Punjab is ongoing, with a total of 21,948 Afghans and other foreigners deported so far, according to a Punjab Police spokesperson on Thursday.

The spokesperson said that 3,464 undocumented individuals are still present at holding points across the province.

Of those deported, 7,671 were men, 4,765 women, and 9,521 children, while 6,025 deportees possessed residential documents.

The official further stated that among those deported were 10,874 holders of Afghan Citizen Cards, adding that 5,049 foreigners were residing in Pakistan without legal documentation.

To facilitate the process, five holding centres have been established in Lahore and a total of 46 across Punjab, the spokesperson said.

Inspector General of Punjab Police Dr Usman Anwar reaffirmed that the province is ensuring the removal of all illegally residing foreigners in accordance with international laws and human rights principles.

He added that the Punjab Police is strictly implementing the government’s repatriation policy, ensuring transparency and humane treatment throughout the process.