Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has established a special task force to tackle human trafficking in Pakistan. He announced that he will personally lead this initiative in light of the alarming increase in migrant boat tragedies involving Pakistani nationals.
“We will ensure that those involved in human trafficking are brought to justice,” the prime minister said during a review meeting on Friday. The meeting focused on the actions needed to curb illegal immigration and dismantle smuggling networks in the country.
The prime minister emphasized the urgent need to accelerate the arrest of human traffickers. He instructed all relevant departments, including the foreign ministry, to actively identify the smugglers and intensify their efforts.
Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the tragic deaths of Pakistanis who perished in boats carrying illegal immigrants. He stated that the nation, including himself, was heartbroken by these devastating incidents.
During the meeting, officials briefed the prime minister on several key developments. Six organized human trafficking networks have been identified. Authorities have filed 12 FIRs, pinpointed 25 individuals, and arrested three key suspects. The names of 16 individuals have also been added to the passport control list.
Updates were provided on the seizure of vehicles, bank accounts, and other assets linked to the traffickers. Authorities also discussed the actions taken against FIA personnel suspected of involvement in these crimes. Additionally, the meeting reviewed findings from an overseas investigative committee.
The prime minister ordered strict measures to ensure that the human traffickers face exemplary punishments. He directed officials to continue identifying and dismantling these networks.
This action follows a tragic incident where a boat carrying migrants, including 66 Pakistanis, capsized off the Moroccan coast. At least 50 people lost their lives in the accident. The boat had departed from Mauritania on January 2 with 86 passengers. Moroccan authorities reported rescuing 36 survivors, most of whom were Pakistanis.
Human trafficking incidents involving Pakistani migrants have become increasingly frequent. In December 2024, 80 Pakistanis died when boats capsized near Greece. The most devastating incident occurred in 2023 when a fishing trawler sank in the Mediterranean Sea near Greece. That tragedy claimed hundreds of lives, including 262 Pakistanis.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s task force aims to put an end to such horrifying incidents. It reflects the government’s determination to combat illegal immigration and protect the lives of its citizens.
