ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday announced the creation of a special task force to combat human trafficking networks in Pakistan.
The decision follows recent tragic incidents of boat capsizing, which claimed the lives of several Pakistani nationals.
During a weekly meeting on the issue, the prime minister expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to holding human traffickers accountable. “Those involved in this heinous crime will face justice, and arrests of individuals in these syndicates will be expedited,” he stated.
The task force, which Sharif will personally head, aims to intensify efforts to identify, prosecute, and dismantle human trafficking groups. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other relevant bodies have been directed to enhance their cooperation in tracking traffickers and providing support to victims.
During the meeting, it was revealed that six organized human trafficking groups have been identified, with 12 FIRs filed and 25 suspects named. Authorities have already arrested three key individuals, and 16 others have been added to the passport control list.
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) shared updates on ongoing investigations, including arrests of officials suspected of involvement in the trafficking networks. Steps are also being taken to seize vehicles, bank accounts, and other assets linked to the syndicates.
Sharif instructed officials to ensure severe penalties for those convicted of human trafficking and to accelerate the dismantling of these criminal networks. He emphasized that the recent tragedies had deeply affected the nation and stressed the urgency of decisive action to prevent future incidents.
