FIA Offloads Three Women at Karachi Airport Over Suspected Human Trafficking and Exploitation of Minor
KARACHI: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Immigration has offloaded three female passengers, including a mother and her two daughters, at Jinnah International Airport over serious concerns regarding suspected human trafficking and the alleged sexual exploitation of a minor.
The three passengers were scheduled to travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). During a detailed examination of their travel documents and the purpose of their journey, FIA officials reportedly identified suspicious circumstances that prompted further investigation.
During immigration clearance, the passengers, identified as Maira, Alisha and their mother, Beenah, were questioned about their travel plans, arrangements and other relevant matters.
During the interview, Maira reportedly stated that she was around 16 to 17 years old and alleged that her parents had shown her age as higher than her actual age on her passport and identity documents.
She further alleged that she had been involved in sexual activities at clubs and hotels in the UAE. The allegations are subject to further investigation.
Suspected Agent’s Communications Under Scrutiny
During the initial inquiry, investigators reportedly found WhatsApp conversations between the passengers’ mother and an alleged agent, identified as Haris, on her mobile phone. The messages reportedly contained discussions about visa arrangements, airline tickets and travel expenses.
The conversations also allegedly referred to increasing the girls’ monthly earnings to Rs600,000 and mentioned other girls. Officials said the contents require further verification and forensic examination.
According to the available information, the alleged agent had reportedly provided financial assistance for the passengers’ travel arrangements.
Investigators also found a receipt on the mother’s mobile phone showing a bank transaction of Rs400,000, reportedly transferred to an account belonging to the girls’ father, Maqsood Ali. The nature and purpose of the transaction, and any possible connection with the suspected activities, are being investigated.
Investigation into Possible Human Trafficking
Authorities have also obtained information concerning the alleged agent, the travel agency involved, travel documents, bank accounts and digital evidence stored on mobile phones.
Officials have stressed the need to establish the identities of any other potentially affected girls, examine financial links and verify the roles of all individuals involved, including the parents.
Given the seriousness of the allegations, proceedings have been initiated to hand over the three passengers to the FIA’s Anti-Human Trafficking Circle (AHTC) for further verification, forensic analysis of digital evidence and necessary legal action.
The investigation into suspected human trafficking, the possible sexual exploitation of a minor and the alleged involvement of facilitators is ongoing. The allegations have yet to be established through the investigative and legal process.
