FIA Targets Human Traffickers: Properties Seized in Central Punjab

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has launched an aggressive crackdown on human traffickers under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's directive, initiating the process of confiscating properties linked to those involved in smuggling operations. The move is part of efforts to combat human trafficking and prosecute individuals responsible for devastating tragedies like the Greek and Libyan boat incidents.

The action, carried out under the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA) 2010, involves freezing the assets of suspects in districts like Gujrat, Sialkot, Mandi Bahauddin, and Gujranwala. FIA officials have also made new arrests, including key suspects from the Greek boat tragedy, which claimed the lives of at least 40 Pakistanis last month.

Key figures in human smuggling networks, such as Imran Shakoor and his accomplice Zain Ali, have been apprehended. Properties associated with traffickers, including those from the notorious Jajja network, are now being seized to dismantle their operations.

PM Sharif emphasized expediting the prosecution process, appointing top legal experts, and working with international governments to bring perpetrators abroad to justice.