Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has instructed authorities to take stern action against Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) officials involved in human trafficking following the Greek boat tragedy, which claimed the lives of at least 40 Pakistani nationals. Chairing a meeting in Islamabad on the prevention of human trafficking, the premier emphasized completing the ongoing investigation promptly and presenting concrete recommendations. He noted that such incidents tarnish Pakistan’s global reputation and criticized the delayed response to the 2023 boat capsizing.
During the meeting, officials briefed the prime minister on steps taken to curb human trafficking and updates on the recent tragedy. Five Pakistani victims have been identified, while efforts to identify the remaining victims are ongoing. The Pakistani Embassy in Athens remains in close contact with Greek authorities.
A report from the embassy revealed that 40 Pakistanis are confirmed dead, with 35 bodies still missing and presumed deceased, as Greek rescue operations have ceased. The three boats involved in the incident departed from Tobruk, Libya. Among them, six Pakistanis were aboard the first vessel, five on the second, and 76 on the third. Rescuers saved 36 Pakistanis from the third boat, recovering five bodies.
This tragedy follows a similar incident last year near Pylos, Greece, where an overcrowded vessel carrying 750 migrants sank, resulting in over 500 deaths.
