In response to the tragic deaths of Pakistani citizens in two separate incidents of people smuggling, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has launched an investigation to identify and apprehend those responsible. The agency has formed multiple teams of investigators to look into the criminal elements involved in trafficking, and expects to make arrests soon.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the Foreign Office to ascertain facts about the incidents and keep the nation informed. The Foreign Office has confirmed that 16 Pakistanis survived the shipwreck off the coast of Italy, while four are still missing. The Embassy is in close contact with Italian authorities to verify the status of the four missing Pakistanis.
Muhammed Waseem, a resident of Gujar Khan, has reported that his nephew Asad Naeem was among the Pakistanis who drowned in the Libya incident. The family has submitted an application to the foreign office in search of help to bring his body back to Pakistan.
The reports of these tragedies have been met with shock and sorrow by the Pakistani community. The FIA’s investigation is a step towards ensuring justice for those affected by people smuggling, and preventing future incidents from occurring.