Example must be made of human traffickers: PM

PM praises FIA for targeting officials aiding traffickers, urges action to dismantle networks and protect lives

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday directed authorities to intensify action against human traffickers and their facilitators, instructing officials to make them "examples for others."

During a high-level meeting, PM Shehbaz commended the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) for its recent actions against government officials involved in facilitating human trafficking networks.

He emphasised the need for swift legal measures to seize the assets of traffickers and hold them accountable.

"Strict legal action should be taken against all human trafficking groups operating in the country so they become a warning for others," PM Shehbaz said.

He urged the Ministry of Law and Justice to engage top-tier prosecutors to strengthen cases against traffickers and ensure effective legal proceedings.

The prime minister also instructed the Foreign Office to liaise with international counterparts for the extradition of Pakistani nationals running trafficking operations from abroad.

In a bid to curb illegal migration, PM Shehbaz called for a nationwide awareness campaign, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, to promote the use of legal avenues for seeking overseas employment.

PM Shehbaz stressed the importance of enhancing technical training institutes to produce certified professionals aligned with global market demands. Additionally, he directed authorities to improve screening protocols at airports for those travelling abroad.

The meeting was attended by key officials, including Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Engineer Amir Maqam, and senior representatives of relevant agencies.

PM Shehbaz Sharif pays tribute to Aitezaz Hasan

Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Monday paid tribute to Shaheed Aitezaz Hasan, who sacrificed his life to save his school and classmates from a devastating attack.

"Today, we commemorate the martyrdom of Shaheed Aitezaz Hasan, a true son of the soil from district Hangu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, whose extraordinary courage stands as a beacon of hope and resilience," the prime minister said in a social media post on X.

Photo: X

He noted that at just 15 years of age, Aitezaz displayed unparalleled bravery, valiantly sacrificing his life to shield his school and classmates from a devastating attack.

“His selflessness and unwavering resolve remind us of the lasting impact a single act of courage can have on countless lives,” the prime minister added.

He emphasised that Aitezaz’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

The eleventh death anniversary of Aitezaz Hasan Shaheed, who laid down his life to stop a suicide bomber from entering his school in Hangu, is being observed today.

He became a national hero on January 6, 2014, after saving hundreds of lives by thwarting the terrorist attack. Aitezaz Hasan grabbed the suicide bomber at the main gate to prevent him from entering the school.

Aitezaz Hasan was posthumously awarded the Sitara-e-Shujaat for his bravery.