The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has released a detailed advisory for the first time in two decades to address the growing issue of human trafficking and enhance monitoring of travelers entering and exiting Pakistan.
Rising Concerns About Exploitation
The advisory comes amid increasing concerns about the exploitation of vulnerable individuals for forced labor and trafficking. Based on an in-depth analysis of the Immigration and Border Management System (IBMS) data from July to December, the report underscores the need for stricter oversight of travelers from 15 countries.
The focus has been placed on passengers from nine cities in Pakistan and select foreign airlines, signaling a significant move in combating human trafficking.
Cities and Airlines Under Investigation
The advisory identifies nine Pakistani cities for intensified monitoring: Mandi Bahauddin, Gujarat, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Jhelum, Toba Tek Singh, Hafizabad, Sheikhupura, and Bhimber. Authorities have been instructed to pay closer attention to passengers aged 15 to 40 traveling abroad.
Countries of concern include Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Ethiopia, Senegal, Kenya, Russia, and Egypt. Additionally, passengers traveling to Libya, Iran, Mauritania, Iraq, Turkey, Qatar, Kuwait, and Kyrgyzstan are subject to heightened scrutiny due to their connection with increased trafficking activities.
Stricter Guidelines for Foreign Airlines
Two foreign airlines—one from the Gulf region and another from Africa—are now required to cooperate with Pakistani authorities to verify passenger documents thoroughly. Particular focus will be on individuals traveling on visit or tourist visas, with checks on return tickets, hotel bookings, and travel purpose.
Suspicious passengers will undergo interviews to assess their financial arrangements and travel intentions. Any irregularities must be reported immediately, with further investigation into those exhibiting questionable behavior.
Strengthened Measures Against Trafficking
Authorities have been directed to conduct rigorous checks on all travelers, prioritizing those heading to high-risk trafficking destinations. The advisory aims to safeguard vulnerable individuals and curb human trafficking through vigilant monitoring and collaboration with airlines and immigration officials.
