FIA has revealed details about organized groups involved in helping people travel illegally from Pakistan to Europe through various transit countries.
According to officials, these networks use countries such as Dubai, Thailand, Cambodia, and Malaysia as stopover points before migrants attempt to enter European nations through unauthorized routes.
During a briefing to a parliamentary committee, FIA officials explained that many individuals initially travel on valid visit visas or student visas. However, after reaching transit destinations, some reportedly try to move onward to Europe through illegal channels.
Authorities said that recruitment networks often target people who have limited travel experience and are searching for better economic opportunities abroad. Officials noted that several cases have been linked to areas including Gujrat and Mandi Bahauddin, where such networks have reportedly been active.
The FIA stated that it has increased monitoring efforts to identify suspicious travel activities and prevent human smuggling. As part of these measures, a large number of passengers were stopped from traveling during 2025.
According to official figures, the agency offloaded 39,786 passengers at airports and border points during the year. Reasons for offloading included incomplete travel documents, suspicious travel histories, forged paperwork, watchlist alerts, and concerns related to the safety of minors.
Officials emphasized that preventing illegal migration remains a priority due to the risks involved. Migrants using unauthorized routes often face financial exploitation, dangerous journeys, and legal consequences in destination countries.
The FIA said it is continuing enforcement operations and intelligence-based monitoring to dismantle human smuggling networks and protect citizens from becoming victims of illegal migration schemes.
Authorities have also urged the public to use legal immigration channels and verify travel arrangements before making plans to work or study abroad.
