A devastating boat accident off the coast of Libya has claimed the lives of at least seven Pakistanis, while 16 others remain missing. Reports indicate that a total of 65 migrants were aboard the ill-fated vessel.
According to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), the deceased Pakistanis were from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with six hailing from Kurram district and one from Bajaur. Their identities were confirmed through passport verification.
The boat capsized near Marsa Dila, northwest of Zawiya, Libya. So far, 10 bodies have been recovered as rescue operations continue. Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the incident in an official statement.
The Pakistani embassy in Tripoli has dispatched a team to Zawiya Hospital to assist local authorities in identifying the deceased and determining the fate of the missing individuals.
PM Shehbaz Sharif Expresses Grief
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident, offering prayers for the departed souls and condolences to the bereaved families.
He directed the Foreign Ministry to expedite the identification process and sought a comprehensive report on the tragedy. Additionally, he instructed relevant institutions to extend all possible support to the victims’ families.
Reaffirming his commitment to combat human trafficking, the Prime Minister vowed strict action against those responsible for such illegal activities, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy towards negligence in this matter.
