The Government of Pakistan has initiated measures to block the passports of 4,000 Pakistani nationals currently detained in Saudi Arabia on various charges.
Siasat Pk reported that the step is intended to prevent the return of these individuals, who are accused of violating Saudi laws and are incarcerated in Saudi prisons.
Pakistani authorities have identified that the charges against these individuals include illegal residency, begging, and involvement in other illicit activities. Efforts were previously made through the Pakistani Embassy in Saudi Arabia to secure their release and provide legal support. However, the recurrence of offences among some detainees has prompted the Pakistani government to block their passports.
The decision could exacerbate the challenges faced by the affected individuals. It has also raised concerns within the Pakistani community in Saudi Arabia about the implications for those detained. Community representatives have urged the Pakistani government to adopt more effective strategies to address the plight of Pakistani detainees in Saudi Arabia and to facilitate their potential return by providing appropriate legal avenues.
The Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs has articulated that these measures aim to safeguard the international reputation of Pakistani citizens and enforce adherence to Saudi laws.
