Amid growing concerns over human trafficking and migrant boat tragedies, four Pakistani nationals were rescued in Iran with the cooperation of the Iranian government, Pakistan’s embassy in Tehran confirmed in a statement.
The Challenge of Human Trafficking
Human smuggling remains a significant challenge in Pakistan, as traffickers continue to exploit land, sea, and air routes to transport individuals illegally, primarily to Europe. Despite enforcement efforts, traffickers keep evolving new strategies to evade authorities.
Rescue Operation & Embassy’s Role
According to Pakistan’s embassy:
- The rescued Pakistanis entered Iran legally but were kidnapped by human traffickers.
- The traffickers tortured them and demanded a heavy ransom from their families.
- A timely intervention by the Pakistani embassy and Iranian authorities saved their lives.
- The smugglers were arrested as a result of the rescue operation.
The Dangerous Network of Human Smugglers
These traffickers lure desperate individuals with false promises of a better life in Europe but often abandon them or subject them to inhumane treatment.
- Land Route: Migrants are smuggled into Iran and later sent to Europe.
- Sea Route: Many embark on perilous boat journeys from Karachi, Gwadar, Pasni, and Jiwani, attempting to reach Europe via the Gulf of Oman.
- Air Route: Some use legitimate visas to travel legally to Dubai and then to Libya, from where they attempt illegal crossings into Europe.
Libya Boat Tragedy: 16 Pakistanis Confirmed Dead
Earlier this month, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that at least 16 Pakistanis lost their lives in a boat accident near Libya, while 10 others remain missing.
- 63 Pakistanis were reportedly on board the ill-fated boat.
- As of February 11, 2025, 16 bodies had been recovered and identified using their passports.
Ambassador’s Warning to Pakistanis
Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran, Muhammad Mudassir Tipu, urged Pakistani nationals to use legal channels for travel and stay in contact with the Pakistani embassy in case of any emergency to avoid becoming victims of human trafficking.
