Seven Afghan nationals residing illegally in Pakistan were arrested following combing operations by law enforcement agencies in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, authorities said on Sunday.

Authorities reiterated that their operations against unregistered foreign nationals will continue in a systematic and indiscriminate manner.

The operations, which were expanded to include Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Murree, and Jhelum, have been part of an ongoing effort to enforce the rule of law and ensure security.

A combined force of 442 police officers, along with personnel from the Rangers and Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), participated in the search and combing operations.

During the operations, law enforcers arrested seven illegal Afghan nationals and launched an investigation into their residency status.

In Rawalpindi, authorities also recovered a 30-bore pistol and ammunition from one of the suspects. A case has been registered in this regard.

In Murree, a search operation conducted at the General Bus Stand and other locations led to the arrest of three illegal Afghan nationals, along with 10 other suspected individuals and one drug dealer.

The operation in Jhelum resulted in the arrest of two Afghan nationals.

In Chakwal, law enforcers apprehended seven fugitives from law and two proclaimed offenders.

A case was also registered against individuals found sheltering the fugitives.

In Attock, approximately 1300 grams of hashish were recovered from one suspect, and investigations in this regard were continuing.

Authorities have made it clear that only legally registered foreign nationals are permitted to stay in the country, and their actions against illegal foreign residents will proceed without exception.

The arrested Afghan nationals were later shifted to the Afghan holding centre in Dhoke Syedan.

Legal action has also been taken against property owners who are found housing illegal residents, with multiple cases filed under the Punjab Prohibition of Temporary Residence Ordinance, 2015.

An official spokesperson said that these operations will continue, as the government remains committed to enforcing laws and ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.