All illegal Afghans to be evicted, says Naqvi

Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir personally contacted the President of Sri Lanka and assured him of foolproof security for the visiting Sri Lankan cricket team

Fiaz Chaudhry

ISLAMABAD, Nov 13 (DNA) – Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi informed the Senate on Wednesday that Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir personally contacted the President of Sri Lanka and assured him of foolproof security for the visiting Sri Lankan cricket team following the Islamabad blast incident. The assurance, he said, helped convince the Sri Lankan side to continue their tour of Pakistan.

Naqvi said that the government had moved swiftly after the tragic blast in Islamabad, which claimed several lives. He confirmed that the main perpetrators involved in the attack had been arrested, adding that the suspects were of Afghan origin. “The investigation is progressing rapidly, and more details will be shared soon,” he told the Upper House.

The interior minister reiterated the government’s firm resolve to rid the country of illegal foreigners, particularly Afghan nationals residing without legal documents. “The operation to evict all illegal Afghans from Pakistan will now be expedited,” Naqvi said, emphasizing that this measure was essential for national security and public safety.

He said that the Islamabad incident had once again exposed the threat posed by illegal elements exploiting Pakistan’s hospitality and leniency. The government, he stressed, would not allow anyone to use Pakistani soil for terrorism or subversive activities.

Naqvi also paid tribute to the security agencies for their prompt action in tracing and arresting the culprits behind the attack, assuring the nation that no one involved in terrorism would be spared. He added that the federal and provincial law enforcement agencies were working in close coordination to ensure peace and stability across the country.

“The safety of our citizens and guests is our top priority,” the minister concluded.