Sources in Islamabad report to Tarz Press that the crackdown on Afghan refugees has intensified at an unprecedented pace. According to reports, many Afghan refugees detained by Pakistani police in recent days have expressed fear for their lives and complained about poor detention conditions.
The Taliban embassy in Islamabad has stated that most of these detainees possess legal documentation, including residence permits and visas. Some detainees claim they were arrested without cause, while others report facing mistreatment and physical threats by Pakistani authorities.
This wave of arrests comes amid international criticism. Global rights organizations have urged the Pakistani government to adhere to international laws regarding refugees and refrain from forced deportations.
Pakistani Authorities’ Justification
Pakistani officials have stated that the arrests are part of security measures targeting undocumented migrants. However, protests over the treatment of Afghan refugees continue to grow.
Women’s Movements Condemn Deportations
Women-led movements, including The Women of Afghanistan’s Resilience Movement, have issued statements condemning the forced deportations. They labeled the actions as “inhumane,” emphasizing that even vulnerable women and children are not spared. The statement called the arrests in Islamabad a blatant violation of human rights and international principles.
Concerns from Journalists and Civil Society Activists
The detentions extend beyond ordinary individuals, affecting journalists who fled Afghanistan due to security threats. Many of these journalists now face worsening conditions in Pakistan.
Rabia Habibi, a journalist, voiced grave concerns about the escalating situation, warning of dire consequences for the safety and well-being of vulnerable individuals. She emphasized the urgent need for global attention and called on Pakistan to honor its international commitments toward refugees and halt forced deportations.
Journalists and activists have appealed to the international community, human rights organizations, and the United Nations to address the situation urgently and ensure the legal and human rights of Afghan refugees in Pakistan are protected.
