Islamabad, January 24, 2025: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has announced the formation of a Special Task Force to combat human trafficking syndicates operating in Pakistan. Chaired by the prime minister himself, the task force aims to intensify efforts against these criminal networks and bring those responsible to justice.
“We will ensure that those involved in human trafficking face justice,” the prime minister vowed during a high-level review meeting focused on measures to curb human trafficking. He stressed the urgent need to expedite the identification and arrest of traffickers and directed all relevant departments, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to play an active role in dismantling these syndicates.
The prime minister expressed deep sorrow over the recent tragedy involving Pakistani citizens who lost their lives in a boat carrying illegal immigrants. Calling the incident heartbreaking, he pledged to hold those responsible accountable and prevent such tragedies from recurring.
During the meeting, officials briefed the prime minister on the progress made in addressing human trafficking. They revealed that six organized trafficking groups had been identified, 12 FIRs registered, 25 individuals identified, and three key suspects arrested. Additionally, 16 names have been added to the passport control list, while vehicles, bank accounts, and assets linked to trafficking networks have been seized.
The briefing also included updates on actions taken against suspected Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) personnel and officers, as well as findings from an overseas investigative committee. The prime minister reiterated his commitment to dismantling these groups and instructed authorities to ensure that exemplary punishment is meted out to those involved.
The meeting was attended by key federal ministers, including Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Azam Nazir Tarar, Ahad Khan Cheema, and Attaullah Tarar, along with Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi and senior officials.
