ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has decided to set up link offices in six countries in an effort to curb the rising incidents of human smuggling.
According to official sources, the immigration wing of the agency will establish offices in the United Kingdom, Spain and Italy, while one office each will also be opened in Turkey, Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates.
Human smuggling is one of Pakistan’s most pressing challenges, driven by poverty, unemployment, lack of education and political instability. Many Pakistanis risk their lives attempting to reach Europe through dangerous routes, often falling prey to traffickers.
Earlier this year, at least 44 Pakistani migrants lost their lives in a boat tragedy near Spain while attempting to cross the Atlantic Ocean illegally.
FIA sources further said that such incidents underscored the urgent need for stricter action against traffickers and more effective migration policies.
The decision to open link offices abroad is part of the action being taken to bust smuggling networks operating from these countries, sources added.
Officials added that the move will also help facilitate foreign traders and tourists, whose arrival in Pakistan is expected to increase during the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
FIA officials involved in human trafficking
In Jan, a report submitted to the prime minister revealed that more than 60 FIA officials were involved in human trafficking.
The inquiry was conducted after a tragic incident off the coast of southern Greek, where a boat capsized on June 14, 2023, leading to the deaths of over 286 Pakistanis.
The inquiry has raised serious questions about the role of FIA immigration officials deputed at different exit points across various cities.
The inquiry report has revealed that 155 of the passengers who lost their lives in Greek had departed from Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport.
According to the inquiry findings, the victims’ journey was part of a larger migration pattern involving questionable travel routes, especially to Libya, where the purpose of the visit was unclear.
A major human trafficking network has been uncovered within the FIA, with 61 of its officials found involved in human trafficking.
A final report recommending the dismissal of 38 officials from service has been presented to the Prime Minister’s Office.