FIA Foils Attempt to Smuggle 16 Beggars Disguised as Umrah Pilgrims to Saudi Arabia

FIA Foils Attempt To Smuggle 16 Beggars Disguised As Umrah Pilgrims To Saudi Arabia

Multan Airport, Pakistan – In a recent operation, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) successfully prevented the illegal transportation of 16 individuals disguised as Umrah pilgrims bound for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The operation took place at Multan Airport just two days ago, shedding light on a disturbing trend of beggar trafficking.

Discovery At Multan Airport

The FIA officials uncovered the scheme during the immigration process when they became suspicious of the group consisting of 16 individuals, which included 11 women, four men, and even a child. Initially, these individuals were traveling on Umrah visas, but further questioning by authorities revealed a startling truth.

Revelations And Illegal Arrangements

Upon interrogation, the passengers confessed that their true intention was not pilgrimage but rather seeking alms in Saudi Arabia. Shockingly, they also disclosed that they had entered into an agreement with agents who facilitated their travel arrangements. Under this arrangement, they were obligated to give half of their earnings from begging to these agents. The group planned to return to Pakistan after the expiry of their Umrah visas.

Legal Action And Further Investigation

In response to this alarming discovery, the FIA Multan circle swiftly arrested the passengers for further interrogation and legal action. The incident highlights the need for robust measures to curb such illicit activities and protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation.

Ministry Revelation And International Implications

Interestingly, these arrests come on the heels of revelations made by the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development to the Senate Committee on Overseas Pakistanis. According to the ministry's secretary, a significant proportion of beggars are being trafficked abroad through illegal channels. Shockingly, it was disclosed that a staggering 90 percent of beggars apprehended in foreign countries belong to Pakistan.

The gravity of this situation has not gone unnoticed, as both the Iraqi and Saudi ambassadors have reported overcrowded jails due to the arrests of these beggars. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for Pakistan to address this issue and prevent its citizens from being exploited and trafficked under the guise of religious pilgrimage.