In a tragic incident, several Pakistani nationals lost their lives while attempting to enter Europe illegally by boat. In response, Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has directed the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to initiate a nationwide crackdown on human smuggling networks. This decision follows orders from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who has also formed a committee led by the additional secretary of the Ministry of Interior to investigate the tragedy. The committee is expected to complete its inquiry and submit a report within five days.
The incident occurred when a wooden boat capsized off Greece's southern island of Gavdos, resulting in the drowning of at least five migrants. The Greek coastguard reported that 39 men, mostly from Pakistan, were rescued and transferred to the island of Crete. The exact number of missing individuals remains unconfirmed as search operations continue.
President Asif Ali Zardari condemned human trafficking, describing it as a "heinous practice" that causes immense suffering. He extended his condolences to the victims' families. Prime Minister Sharif also expressed his condolences and emphasized the need for strict punishments and effective measures to prevent such tragedies. He highlighted the deceptive tactics used by smuggling mafias to exploit individuals with false promises.
Earlier, on June 14, 2023, another boat carrying around 750 people, mainly from Pakistan, Syria, and Egypt, capsized off Greece. Out of the total passengers, 104 survived, and 82 bodies were recovered.
Pakistan is a country in South Asia, which is India's neighbor to the northwest.
Human smuggling is when people are illegally transported across borders, often in dangerous conditions, for money.
Greece is a country in Europe, known for its ancient history and beautiful islands.
The Interior Minister is a government official responsible for internal affairs, like law and order, within a country.
Mohsin Naqvi is a Pakistani politician who was serving as the Interior Minister at the time of the incident.
The Prime Minister is the head of the government in a country, responsible for running the country and making important decisions.
Shehbaz Sharif is a Pakistani politician who was serving as the Prime Minister at the time of the incident.
A committee is a group of people chosen to investigate or manage a specific issue or task.
Asif Ali Zardari is a Pakistani politician who has served as the President of Pakistan in the past.
Human trafficking is a serious crime where people are illegally bought and sold, often for forced labor or exploitation.
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