PM Shehbaz orders swift action against human traffickers

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday directed the authorities concerned to take strict action within a week against culprits involved in human trafficking.

The premier made the remarks while chairing a review meeting regarding the prevention of human trafficking in the country, read a statement issued by the PM’s Office.

During the meeting, the report of the committee formed under the chairmanship of Mushtaq Sukhera was presented in view of the migrant’s boat capsizing incident occurred near Greece in December 2024.

At least 40 Pakistanis lost their lives after their boat capsized and sank in open seas off Greece this month. 

The premier extended his gratitude to Sukhera for compiling a comprehensive report on the matter. He also directed to make the prosecution process more effective against people involved in human trafficking.

“Why disciplinary action has not been taken against government officials who facilitate people involved in human trafficking?”, the PM asked.

He directed to make visa checks and other regulations effective for all those going abroad. 

“The Government of Pakistan is committed to the complete elimination of human trafficking from the country,” he added.

PM Shehbaz also issued instructions to form a committee headed by the interior minister to find a sustainable solution to end human trafficking.

In the meeting, the premier was briefed regarding the measures taken against human trafficking in the country, whereas a briefing was also given on the identification of the Pakistanis in the December 2024 migrant boat accident near Greece and the progress of repatriation of their remains.