ISLAMABAD: In a major operation to curb human trafficking and improve Pakistan’s international reputation, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested 324 beggars, including 119 women, and two human smugglers at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport.
The arrests are part of an intensified campaign by the FIA Human Trafficking Circle Karachi, which revealed that 204 individuals were intercepted at departure gates in 2024 alone, while 269 others were detained upon arrival after being deported for begging abroad.
“This misuse of Umrah visas has not only damaged the country’s image but also exposed a growing and organized human trafficking network,” said Rabia Qureshi, Deputy Director of FIA.
Strict Penalties Enforced
In response, the FIA has blacklisted the passports of all those involved and imposed a five-year travel ban on them. Authorities have also blocked national identity cards and frozen bank accounts of the offenders as part of broader enforcement measures.
“Only two out of 26 suspected agents have been apprehended so far, but we are actively pursuing the rest of the network,” said Bahawal Osto, Deputy Director of Immigration.
The FIA emphasized that efforts will continue to dismantle these trafficking rings and ensure that travel documentation is not exploited for illegal purposes.
