PM orders making an example of human traffickers

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday directed to take strict legal action, including confiscation of assets and properties, against all human traffickers in the country to make them an example.

Chairing a meeting regarding the progress on measures taken against human trafficking here, the prime minister emphasised that the prosecution process against all individuals involved in the crime should be made more effective.

He said that after consultation with the Ministry of Law and Justice, the most competent lawyers should be appointed for prosecution. Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Amir Muqam and senior officials attended the meeting.

Shehbaz further instructed the Foreign Office to contact relevant countries regarding Pakistanis running human trafficking racket abroad and take prompt measures for their extradition to Pakistan.

He also advised the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to run an awareness campaign, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, to inform the public about using only legal channels for overseas employment.

He said technical training institutions should be promoted in the country to provide certified professionals to the overseas market as per the need of the day. He also instructed to make the screening process for individuals traveling abroad more effective.

Regarding facilitators and abettors of human traffickers, the prime minister said strict punitive measures, along with disciplinary action, should be taken against such elements.

He, however, commended the initiation of disciplinary actions against government officials facilitating human trafficking and also appreciated the recent actions taken by the Federal Investigation Agency against the officials involved in human trafficking.

The prime minister was briefed about the measures taken against human trafficking in the country and the progress on legal action against facilitators of the crime. The meeting was also updated on the progress of legislative measures to eliminate human trafficking.

APP adds: Meanwhile, in a post on X, the prime minister paid tribute to Shaheed Aitezaz Hasan who sacrificed his life to save his school and classmates from a devastating attack. “Today, we commemorate the martyrdom of Shaheed Aitezaz Hasan, a true son of the soil from district Hangu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, whose extraordinary courage stands as a beacon of hope and resilience,” Shehbaz said.

He noted that at just 15 years of age, Aitezaz displayed unparalleled bravery, valiantly sacrificing his life to shield his school and classmates from a devastating attack. “His selflessness and unwavering resolve remind us of his lasting impact a single act of courage can have on countless lives,” he added. He emphasized that Aitezaz’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations.