Illegal Migration to Europe via Balochistan Continues, Over 90,000 Arrested in Last Five Years
Quetta:The illegal migration of Pakistanis to Europe through **Balochistan** continues unabated, with over **90,000 individuals** arrested in the past five years for attempting to travel illegally. The majority of these migrants attempt to cross into **Iran** through the border districts of **Chagai**, **Washuk**, **Kech**, **Gwadar**, and **Panjgur**, which share a border with **Iran**. For decades, Balochistan has been a primary route for both legal and illegal migration to **Iran** and then onward to **Europe**.
**Human traffickers**, for a hefty fee, continue to lure people with the dream of reaching Europe, guiding them through **Iran** and then across **Turkey** to **Greece**, **Italy**, and other European nations by sea. Many of these migrants face perilous journeys, often falling victim to harsh weather conditions, difficult terrain, or border patrols, and end up either being arrested or losing their lives in the process.
According to the **Chagai Levies Force**, in the past five years, over 90,000 individuals have been apprehended while attempting to travel illegally from Balochistan to Iran and subsequently to Europe. The arrest figures have steadily increased, highlighting the growing issue of human trafficking in the region.
– In **2019**, a total of **17,452** individuals were arrested on their way to Europe.
– The following year, **2020**, saw a rise in arrests, with **20,595** people detained for trying to illegally migrate.
– In **2021**, the figure increased further, with **21,250** people apprehended.
– In **2022**, **6,500** individuals were arrested, while this year, **2023**, witnessed **10,905** arrests.
So far this year, **13,500 individuals** have been arrested while attempting to illegally cross into Iran, only to face legal repercussions upon their return to Pakistan.
This alarming trend underscores the ongoing challenge of controlling illegal migration and human trafficking networks operating in Balochistan, and highlights the desperation of many who are willing to take dangerous routes in search of a better life abroad.
