Investigations Launched Against Afghan Nationals Upon Arrival in Leipzig

Following the arrival of 138 Afghan nationals in Leipzig from Islamabad, significant concerns have emerged regarding the documentation presented by some passengers. Prior to their departure, these individuals were subject to multiple security checks by authorities in Pakistan. However, upon landing in Germany, investigations were initiated by the Federal Police regarding potential document fraud involving several individuals.

The Federal Ministry of the Interior confirmed that the Afghan evacuees underwent thorough entry inspections upon their arrival. According to reports, the verification process at Leipzig Airport spanned from the evening of their arrival until the early hours of the following morning. During this period, eight separate investigations were launched, focusing on allegations of falsified documents presented at immigration.

Interestingly, it was noted that four individuals were removed from the passenger list shortly before takeoff due to discrepancies related to the identification photographs, specifically involving a minor. Of the 138 individuals who did manage to board, there were 76 females and 62 males, including 45 minors, six of whom were toddlers under the age of two. The group included prominent figures such as the former spokesperson for the Presidential Office, two lawyers, several journalists, human rights advocates, and a physician, yet only five were identified as former local staff.

The situation has sparked a heated political debate in Germany concerning the ongoing acceptance programs for Afghan refugees and former local employees. Members of the Green Party have expressed intentions to continue these programs on humanitarian grounds, while the CDU/CSU opposition has called for an immediate cessation of flights bringing Afghan nationals to Germany. They argue that the current administration should halt these operations, especially considering that approximately 2,600 individuals with confirmed acceptance letters are still in Pakistan.

CSU Secretary General Martin Huber has been vocal in his criticism of the current government's approach, suggesting that public sentiment is shifting against the Green Party's policies. He emphasized that the recent election results reflect a desire for a change in immigration policy, hinting at a potential shift towards stricter immigration controls under the incoming administration.