Lahore: Pakistan’s Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, has announced strict measures to prevent professional beggars and travellers with incomplete documents from going abroad.
This comes after several Gulf countries deported thousands of Pakistani nationals caught begging.
Naqvi said the government’s top priority is protecting Pakistan’s dignity and helping genuine passengers. He warned that anyone who brings a bad name to the country will face tough action.
Authorities have detained or sent back many Pakistanis from places like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, often on charges of organised begging or visa misuse.
Officials say Gulf nations have shared concerns about this issue. They point out that a large number of foreign beggars arrested there are from Pakistan. In response, authorities have tightened checks on visit, Umrah, and short-term visas.
This year alone, Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency stopped over 66,000 people from leaving airports due to suspicious travel plans or missing papers. Tens of thousands more have been deported from Gulf states and other countries as part of wider efforts against illegal migration.
The move aims to reduce embarrassment for Pakistanis overseas and ease pressure from friendly nations. Stricter rules are now in place at borders and airports to spot potential issues early.