Pakistani police have intensified a sweeping crackdown on Afghan refugees in Islamabad, arresting dozens of individuals, including women's rights activists, according to multiple sources familiar with the situation.

The arrests took place across several districts of the capital on Friday, Dec. 5, as security forces expanded operations targeting undocumented Afghan nationals. Refugees report that many detainees were taken without prior notice and transported directly to detention facilities.

Sources warn that without rapid legal and humanitarian support, those detained could face forced deportation to Afghanistan. Many reportedly lack access to lawyers, international agencies, or asylum case documentation.

Human rights advocates say the situation is especially alarming because many of the detainees include women protesters, journalists, civil society members, and former security personnel who fled Afghanistan after the Taliban takeover. They fear persecution, imprisonment, or torture if returned.

Over recent days, police have intensified arrests and transfers to the temporary holding facility known as Haji Camp, where detainees are processed before removal. Refugees report increasing fear, harassment, and extortion during police raids.

The escalation in deportations has triggered criticism from humanitarian organizations, who argue that Pakistan is failing to meet international protection obligations amid a worsening winter season and deepening humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.

Rights groups are urging Pakistan to halt forced returns and calling on Western nations to accelerate

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