INTERNATIONAL — February 23, 2026
Pakistan Detains 20 Afghan Migrants in Islamabad Amid Broader Crackdown
Pakistani authorities detained 20 Afghan citizens in Islamabad last week during eight police operations and plan further measures in a broader crackdown on migrants. The actions have included increased arrests, deportations and refusals of visa extensions amid accusations of abuse.
The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Khaama Press — corroborated by Pajhwok, RTA and Amu TV — 2 min read
Pakistani authorities have intensified actions against Afghan migrants, detaining 20 Afghan citizens in Islamabad over the past week during eight police inspection operations, according to The Nation newspaper on February 23.
Officials confirmed that additional measures targeting Afghan migrants are planned as part of a nationwide enforcement effort. In recent weeks, Pakistan has increased arrests and deportations of Afghan nationals and refused visa extensions for Afghan citizens.
Police have faced accusations of extracting payments from detained migrants. Human rights advocates have criticized the treatment of migrants during these enforcement actions.
Millions of Afghans reside in Pakistan, many without formal documentation, due to decades of conflict and instability in Afghanistan. Immigration authorities have tightened restrictions on undocumented migrants, leading to detentions and deportations across major cities.
Over 100 Afghan migrants are released weekly from Pakistani detention facilities and returned to Afghanistan.
Read the original reporting at Khaama Press →
Reliability assessment
Key facts corroborated by four independent Afghan outlets (Khaama Press, Pajhwok, RTA, Amu TV) reporting on detentions during police operations, initially sourced from Pakistani newspaper The Nation with official confirmations of broader measures.
The source language mixes facts with framing or advocacy wording. Phrases like 'systemic abuse and corruption', 'precarious situation', and 'need for clearer policies and humanitarian protections' mix reporting with value judgments and advocacy phrasing.
Across the newsrooms
Filed by 4 outlets
Khaama Press
Originating
Pajhwok
RTA
Amu TV
Filed under
International — Pakistan, Afghan migrants, Islamabad, deportations, detentions
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