By Asim Shahzad
LAHORE: A joint press conference by Special Committe of Punjab Assembly on Anti Human Traffecking and Smuggling comprisesing on government and opposition held at Local Hotel in LAHORE .
The press conference of the Parliamentary Working Group on Curbing Smuggling of Migrants and Trafficking in Persons in Punjab was held in Lahore.
The press conference was convened in the wake of the tragic deaths of Pakistani citizens in Libya due to human smuggling.
The session was attended by Members of the Provincial Assembly (MPAs) Uzma Kardar Adnan Afzal Chattha, Aoun Hameed, Rifat Mahmood Zaidi Rushda Lodhi, and Syed Kausar Abbas, who commended the government for forming a special committee on human smuggling and trafficking.
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During the meeting, Syed Kausar Abbas highlighted that four major human smuggling cases had been reported recently. Referring to the latest Libya incident, he emphasized the need for district-level surveillance to combat the menace effectively. He proposed the establishment of Anti-Human Smuggling and Trafficking Cells in every district, ensuring that reports are promptly shared with the parliamentary committee.
He further urged a change in societal attitudes, stressing that the money people pay to smugglers could instead be invested in business opportunities within Pakistan.
On the occassion, MPA Uzma Kardar, who also serves as the Convenor of the Special Parliamentary Committee on Anti-Human Trafficking and Human Smuggling, reaffirmed the government’s resolve to eliminate this crime. She noted that innocent Pakistanis fall victim to organized mafias and international gangs, who lure them with false promises of prosperity abroad.
“These traffickers convince people that they will earn millions once they leave Pakistan. Many pay between Rs. 4 to 5 million to reach destinations like Malaysia, Cambodia, and European countries via transit routes through Libya. However, most end up stranded on islands or abandoned in foreign lands,” she explained.
She stated that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), police, Deputy Commissioners (DCs), and District Police Officers (DPOs) are working together to curb human smuggling. Dedicated victim support units are also being set up to assist affected families.
Talking to The Media , MPA Adnan Afzal Chattha described irregular migration as a tragic industry that needs immediate intervention. “Many victims of human smuggling belong to Gujranwala, Gujrat, and surrounding districts. The government has formed a committee to address this crisis, and a crackdown on human smugglers is underway,” he said.
He further mentioned that the Punjab government has initiated technical skills programs to provide legal migration opportunities for youth. “We are training nurses for employment in Saudi Arabia and helping young people migrate legally through structured programs,” he stated, adding that a public awareness campaign has also been launched.
On the occassion, MPA Rushda Lodhi stressed the importance of legal migration and urged people to explore government-backed opportunities. “The Technical Education and Vocational Training Authority (TEVTA) is imparting skills training to uneducated youth, ensuring they have viable career paths within Pakistan,” she said.
While MPA Rifat Mahmood pointed out that Jhelum is among the most affected districts and called for strict action against human traffickers. “The promotion of small industries can help curb this menace by providing alternative livelihoods,” he suggested.
MPA Aoun Hameed Dogar highlighted the impact of human trafficking on Pakistani families, especially in areas where joint family systems are prevalent. “The loss of a family member in such tragedies affects entire households,” he said.
Syed Kausar Abbas, Executive Director of the Sustainable Social Development Organization (SSDO), praised the establishment of the parliamentary committee, calling it a crucial step in strengthening legislative oversight. He emphasized the role of civil society in supporting government initiatives, ensuring accountability, and spreading awareness on trafficking and illegal migration.
Uzma Kardar concluded by reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to combating trafficking in persons (TIP) and smuggling of migrants (SOM). She stated that Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz has introduced several youth and women empowerment programs to create local job opportunities, reducing the need for risky migration.
“The government has developed a National Action Plan to tackle this crisis. However, a unified and robust approach is needed to effectively combat human smuggling and trafficking,” she said.
The meeting ended with a pledge to intensify efforts against human smuggling and strengthen district-level monitoring mechanisms to prevent further tragedies.
