PESHAWAR, Feb 25: A US national was arrested from the University Town on Friday under the Foreigners' Act. The man, in his early 30s, was identified as Aaron Mark De Haven. He hails from Virginia and has been associated with a private firm Catalyst Services which rents buildings for US citizens in the area.

Informed sources said his visa had expired on Oct 22 last year. He had applied for its extension, but his application was rejected.

Haven, who married a local girl, claims to have embraced Islam. His Muslim name is Haroon. He was living in Falcon Colony near Tehkal.

It is learnt that police have impounded his car.

The SHO of Town Police told Dawn that the man had been charged under the Foreigners' Act for illegally staying in the country and he would be produced in court on Saturday.

There are unconfirmed reports that police had found some important documents in his possession.

Agencies add: Punishment for illegal stay in Pakistan is three months' imprisonment or deportation, police said.

A US embassy statement said it was aware of the reported arrest and was arranging consular access through Pakistan government.

“We have seen press reports that an American citizen named Aaron Mark De Haven has been detained by police in Peshawar,” the statement said.

“Until a US government representative meets with him, we cannot confirm additional details,” it added.