FIA arrests human trafficking proclaimed offender after 16 years on the run

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested a proclaimed offender allegedly involved in human trafficking who had been evading arrest

MANDI BAHAUDDIN:  The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested a proclaimed offender allegedly involved in human trafficking who had been evading arrest for 16 years, in a major operation conducted in Mandi Bahauddin.

According to officials, the arrest was made as part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to apprehend individuals involved in human smuggling, trafficking and illegal immigration. The suspect had been wanted by law enforcement agencies in connection with a human trafficking case registered in 2010.

Details of the FIA Operation

Sources said the operation was launched on the directives of Director FIA Islamabad Zone Shehzad Nadeem Bukhari, who instructed officials to intensify efforts to arrest proclaimed offenders involved in serious crimes.

Following these instructions, Deputy Director of the Anti-Human Trafficking Circle, Nadeem Zafar, formed a special team tasked with tracing and apprehending the long-time fugitive.

The team was headed by Inspector Zahid Bhatti and included Assistant Sub-Inspector Rafique and Head Constable Waqas Gujjar.

According to FIA officials, the team acted on confidential information regarding the whereabouts of the suspect and successfully carried out the operation, leading to his arrest after years of evading authorities.

The agency appreciated the team’s professional efforts and effective coordination in apprehending the wanted individual.

Background of the Accused

The arrested suspect has been identified as Noor Ahmed, who was nominated in First Information Report (FIR) No. 243/10.

Investigators allege that the accused was involved in facilitating the illegal migration of Pakistani citizens to Greece through dangerous and unauthorized routes passing through Iran and Turkey.

The alleged network reportedly used irregular migration channels, commonly referred to as “donkey routes,” to transport individuals across international borders without legal documentation.

According to officials, these routes expose vulnerable individuals to serious risks, including exploitation, financial fraud, physical abuse and life-threatening conditions during their journeys.

The suspect had reportedly remained at large for approximately 16 years despite being wanted in connection with the case. His arrest is being considered a significant development in the investigation into the alleged human trafficking network.

Further Investigation Underway

FIA officials stated that the arrested accused has been taken into custody for further investigation. Authorities will examine his alleged involvement in facilitating illegal migration and identify other individuals who may have been associated with the network.

Investigators are also expected to determine the extent of the operation, including the number of people allegedly facilitated by the suspect and the possible involvement of additional facilitators.

The agency reiterated its commitment to taking strict legal action against individuals involved in human trafficking, human smuggling and illegal immigration.

Officials emphasised that operations against proclaimed offenders and organised trafficking networks would continue across the country to prevent vulnerable citizens from falling victim to fraudulent overseas employment offers and dangerous migration routes.

The FIA has urged citizens to adopt legal channels for overseas travel and employment and remain cautious of agents promising foreign settlement through unauthorized means.