The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested three young men at Sialkot International Airport for allegedly attempting to travel to Europe illegally by first departing for Saudi Arabia on Umrah visas.
According to immigration officials, the suspects were intercepted before boarding their scheduled flight. Authorities believe the Umrah journey was part of a larger plan to enter Europe through illegal migration routes.
The case has once again highlighted the continued use of religious travel as an alleged cover for human smuggling operations.
Suspects Were Traveling With Family Members
According to the FIA, the three youths were traveling to Saudi Arabia with close family members. Officials identified the suspects as Attiqur Rehman, Muneeb Ahmad, and Zubair Ahmad. Attiqur Rehman and Muneeb Ahmad were traveling with their mothers, while Zubair Ahmad was accompanied by his grandmother. All three were scheduled to depart on flight PF-720 for the Umrah pilgrimage.
Investigation Reveals Alleged Human Smuggling Plan
During the initial investigation, FIA officials reportedly uncovered communication between the suspects and an alleged human trafficker identified as Seth Abid.
According to investigators, the three youths allegedly planned to travel illegally from Saudi Arabia to Libya. From there, they intended to continue their journey toward Greece through irregular migration routes.
The FIA said the suspects were allegedly preparing to use the dangerous “donkey route” commonly associated with illegal migration into Europe.
Authorities Arrest Suspects and Expand Investigation
Following the initial inquiry, immigration officials arrested the three youths at the airport.
Later, they were handed over to the FIA Sialkot Composite Circle for further investigation.
Officials also claimed that a woman identified as sub-agent Abu Bakar Goraya had remained in contact with the suspects throughout the process.
According to investigators, the alleged agreement for the illegal travel arrangement was finalized for Rs5.5 million.
Elderly Women Deny Links With the Suspects
Interestingly, the elderly women accompanying the travelers denied having any connection with the arrested youths.
Authorities have not shared further details regarding their statements or whether they will face any additional questioning.
Meanwhile, the FIA continues its investigation to determine the full extent of the alleged human trafficking network and identify others who may have been involved in organizing the planned journey.
