FIA Officials Expelled Amid Investigation into Greece Boat Tragedy

ISLAMABAD: An investigation into the recent boat tragedy in Greece has uncovered the involvement of several officials from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) in human trafficking activities. As a result, 18 FIA officers, including a sub-inspector, three ASIs, 11 head constables, and three constables, have been expelled from their posts in the district. The officers were stationed in Gujrat, Gujranwala, and Sialkot. Additionally, Sialkot Airport’s Additional Director (Immigration), Ali Zaidi, has been transferred, and the Deputy Director of Kartarpur, Muhammad Nauman, has been assigned the additional charge of Sialkot airport.

The expelled officials are now under investigation and have been summoned to appear before the FIA Director-General. The DG will personally oversee the inquiry, and any officers found guilty of misconduct will face further disciplinary actions. The implicated officers were posted across various zones, including Karachi, Gujranwala, Multan, and Faisalabad.

The Greece boat tragedy has sparked widespread outrage, especially after the tragic loss of life among Pakistani migrants. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had previously expressed anger over the failure to take appropriate action against those responsible for similar incidents in 2023, which led to the deaths of 262 Pakistanis. He has since directed authorities to take swift and firm action against human traffickers and FIA officials involved in these illegal activities.

Read more: FIA Arrests Three Bangladeshi Sisters for Illegally Obtaining Pakistani ID Cards

The ongoing investigation and government measures aim to address the growing problem of human trafficking and prevent further tragedies. Human trafficking has continued to tarnish Pakistan’s global reputation, with the prime minister emphasizing the need for effective steps to stop these illegal practices and protect vulnerable citizens from exploitation.