FIA Investigates 31 Officers Over Alleged Involvement in Greek Boat Tragedy
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) is intensifying its probe into the Greek boat accident, focusing on 31 officers and staff members under departmental inquiries.
Sources revealed that a special team, led by the FIA Director General, has summoned all implicated officers to the Islamabad headquarters for individual hearings. Initial findings suggest these officers may have been involved in facilitating individuals attempting to flee the country or displayed negligence contributing to the tragedy.
The officers under investigation, whose names have been added to the Passport Control List, include personnel from various airports: Faisalabad (19), Sialkot (3), Lahore (2), Islamabad (2), and Quetta (5). The list comprises inspectors, sub-inspectors, head constables, and constables.
The FIA has declared these individuals as suspects in the ongoing inquiry. Personal hearings are being conducted in phases, and the FIA spokesperson stated that any decisions or actions taken against them will be disclosed.
Human Trafficking Network Uncovered
The FIA recently arrested two individuals, Ayesha Fatima and Abdullah Shehzad, suspected of being part of a human trafficking racket. The accused allegedly extorted Rs7.4 million from three victims of a recent boat tragedy near Greece.
According to the FIA, Ayesha Fatima sent victims to Libya, where they were later rescued after a boat accident. Meanwhile, Abdullah Shehzad reportedly facilitated a young man’s journey to Greece, where he tragically lost his life.
PM Shehbaz Sharif Demands Action
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed strict action against FIA officials involved in facilitating human traffickers. In a recent meeting, he emphasized the need to expedite investigations into human trafficking, warning that such incidents tarnish Pakistan’s global image.
“The delay in addressing last year’s boat tragedy is unacceptable,” the PM stated. “We must act swiftly to prevent further harm to the nation’s reputation.”
Repatriation of Victims Begins
The repatriation of bodies from the Greek boat tragedy has commenced, with only five victims identified so far and around 35 still missing.
The body of Muhammad Abid arrived at Sialkot Airport on Tuesday, followed by the remains of Haji Ahmad. Another victim, Rehman Ali, is expected to arrive on January 1, 2025. The repatriations are being carried out in phases.
