Islamabad, April 24, 2026: The Director of the Federal Investigation Agency Islamabad Zone, Syed Shahzad Nadeem Bukhari, has taken serious notice of recent tragic boat incidents and ordered a series of immediate enforcement and investigative measures against human trafficking networks.
According to an official press release, the FIA has launched a coordinated crackdown targeting agents involved in illegal migration through “land routes” and human smuggling networks operating domestically and abroad.
The Deputy Director of the Anti-Human Trafficking Circle in Islamabad and Rawalpindi has been directed to form special investigation teams, with two units already constituted to arrest individuals facilitating illegal migration routes.
Authorities said the focus will be on dismantling organised networks involved in facilitating irregular travel arrangements.
The FIA has also directed initiation of action through Interpol against agents operating from abroad, expanding the scope of enforcement beyond Pakistan’s borders.
Officials confirmed that proceedings under anti-money laundering laws have been initiated. Investigators are compiling detailed records of suspects’ movable and immovable assets, bank transactions, and financial trails.
Travel histories and banking data of suspected agents are also being collected as part of the investigation.
The FIA said close coordination has been established with other law enforcement agencies (LEAs) to ensure technical and operational support in arresting suspects. Assistance from local police will be sought where required.
Alongside enforcement actions, a nationwide awareness campaign has been launched across social media platforms, airports, and public spaces to discourage illegal migration and expose the risks associated with human trafficking networks.
Special campaigns targeting known smuggling routes have also been initiated at prominent public locations.
The FIA warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found abetting or facilitating illegal immigration activities.
Officials said the ongoing drive aims to dismantle notorious human trafficking networks and strengthen preventive mechanisms to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to sustained action against organised smuggling operations across all identified routes.
