Pakistani Police Intensify Arrests of Afghan Refugees in Islamabad, Including U.S. P1 and P2 Cases

Pakistani police have intensified the arrest of Afghan refugees in Islamabad, sparking growing concern over the treatment of displaced communities. Reports indicate that on Sunday, July 27, police increased operations, even conducting searches in civilian clothes to avoid detection.

The arrests have accelerated in the F-17 and B-17 housing sectors, where refugees face sudden checks and detentions. The Pakistani government has also halted visa extensions for over a month, leaving thousands of Afghan refugees vulnerable to arrest and possible deportation.

Witnesses reported to Khaama Press that among those arrested are Afghan refugees holding Priority 1 (P1) and Priority 2 (P2) status, who are awaiting relocation under the U.S. resettlement program. Many of these refugees are U.S. allies, and their detention has deepened fears among applicants who fled persecution and remain stranded in Pakistan.

These refugees have been waiting since the fall of Afghanistan’s previous government and the Taliban takeover, their hopes for safe resettlement now overshadowed by arrests and uncertainty.

The United Nations has warned that Afghan refugees forced to return from Pakistan and Iran face severe risks, with the Taliban reportedly arresting, torturing, and imprisoning many.

These developments highlight mounting humanitarian concerns, with calls for Pakistan and the international community to adopt humane, lawful measures to protect vulnerable Afghans and prevent further suffering.