ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) stopped a young woman at Multan International Airport over her attempt to reach Italy through an illegal trafficking network. According to the FIA, Saira Naheed was traveling to Türkiye on a visit visa. She was stopped at the Multan airport during immigration clearance.
Authorities became suspicious about her travel plans and launched an initial inquiry. Investigators later found that she intended to travel from Türkiye to Italy through illegal channels. The FIA said Saira had contacted an agent in Faisalabad, who promised to arrange her journey to Italy for a large payment.
According to investigators, the agent had already received an advance payment of Rs1 million. The remaining amount was reportedly due after her arrival in Italy.
Officials said members of the alleged trafficking network planned to receive her in Türkiye. They would then reportedly facilitate her illegal border crossing into Italy.
The FIA transferred the passenger to its Anti-Human Trafficking Circle in Multan for further investigation. Meanwhile, authorities are working to identify and arrest the alleged agent and other network members.
PM Calls Trafficking Victims Survivors
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said human trafficking victims should receive protection and support rather than criminal treatment.
In a message marking World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, he reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to fighting human trafficking.
He described trafficking as a serious and organized human rights violation that exploits vulnerable people for criminal profit.
Furthermore, he said trafficking connects with organized crimes including irregular migration, forged documents, money laundering, and forced labour.
