LHC grants bail to Libya boat tragedy suspect

The Lahore High Court (LHC) has granted post-arrest bail to Muhammad Tahir, a suspect in the Libya boat tragedy case

The Lahore High Court (LHC) has granted post-arrest bail to Muhammad Tahir, a suspect in the Libya boat tragedy case, ruling that investigations into international human trafficking cases must be supported by credible and legally admissible evidence rather than mere suspicion.

Justice Amjad Rafiq issued a detailed 10-page written verdict explaining the reasons for granting bail. The court observed that allegations of human trafficking, being an international crime, require thorough and professional investigations based on concrete evidence.

The court noted that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) should have obtained evidence from abroad and sought legal assistance from relevant international authorities during the investigation. It said cooperation with foreign agencies is essential in cases involving cross-border human trafficking.

According to the written order, investigators should have collected digital and documentary evidence, including WhatsApp chats, call records, bank records, travel documents and other electronic data. The court stressed that such evidence is necessary to establish the active role of an accused in an alleged trafficking network.

The judgment further stated that the standard of investigation must be strong enough to legally prove an accused person’s involvement rather than relying on assumptions or incomplete evidence.

The court also highlighted the need for reforms to effectively combat human trafficking. It said stronger legislation, improved investigative methods and better law enforcement mechanisms are essential to tackle organised trafficking networks.

The LHC ruled that the transfer of money into a person’s bank account alone cannot be treated as proof of involvement in human trafficking. It added that suspicion, speculation or banking transactions by themselves are insufficient to establish criminal liability in such cases.

The court ordered the release of Muhammad Tahir on post-arrest bail against surety bonds of Rs500,000, subject to the conditions set by the court. The case will continue in accordance with the law while further investigation proceeds.