29 children rescued from trafficking gang

Runaway, homeless children prime targets

LAHORE:

The Lahore Organised Crime Unit claimed to have dismantled a child smuggling ring involved in luring and trafficking children from Punjab to Azad Kashmir.

During an intelligence-based operation in Kotli, Azad Kashmir, 29 children were safely rescued, police officials confirmed at a press conference.

The operation, led by DIG Organised Crime Imran Kishwar, resulted in the arrest of the group's ringleader, Imran alias Kan Pata and two accomplices, Muhammad Nasir and Ali Raza.

The suspects had been targeting homeless and runaway children, promising them employment before smuggling them to Azad Kashmir, where they were held in illegal confinement.

Authorities revealed that the children had suffered severe human rights violations, including forced labour and sexual abuse.

The rescued children are now under protection, and further investigations are underway to gather more evidence and bring additional charges against the culprits.

DIG Kishwar lauded the efforts of his team, which used modern technology, IT experts, and experienced officers to bring the perpetrators to justice in a short time. He reaffirmed the Organised Crime Unit's commitment to continue its crackdown on criminal elements, ensuring the safety and protection of citizens. The arrested individuals will face severe penalties, with the help of the prosecution partnership, as the authorities seek justice for the victims.