On Wednesday, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) released a detailed advise for the first time in 20 years, targeting the prevention of human trafficking and the enhancement of passenger monitoring for those going to and from Pakistan.

The action is prompted by increasing apprehensions over the exploitation of susceptible individuals for forced labor and trafficking.

The recommendation, derived from a comprehensive review of the Immigration and Border Management System (IBMS) database from July to December, underscores the escalating necessity for enhanced monitoring of travelers from 15 nations.

The measures specifically target passengers from nine Pakistani locations and some foreign airlines, representing a crucial advancement in the nation’s initiatives to combat the escalating problem of human trafficking.

Cities and airlines facing examination

The alert identifies nine Pakistani cities: Mandi Bahauddin, Gujarat, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Jhelum, Toba Tek Singh, Hafizabad, Sheikhupura, and Bhimber. The advise has, for the first time, explicitly instructed authorities to enhance inspection of passengers aged 15 to 40 going internationally.

The countries of interest include Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Ethiopia, Senegal, Kenya, Russia, and Egypt. The advise additionally mandates a comprehensive examination into travelers heading to Libya, Iran, Mauritania, Iraq, Turkey, Qatar, Kuwait, and Kyrgyzstan. These regions have been identified due to their correlation with heightened human trafficking activity in recent years.

Stricter requirements for international carriers

Two international airlines, one from the Gulf area and the other from Africa, have been added to the advice. The FIA has mandated that these airlines completely participate in the verification of passenger documents, especially for those traveling to or from Pakistan.

The advise underscores the necessity of meticulously examining all documentation, including return tickets and hotel reservations, with special focus on individuals going on visit or tourist visas. Officials have been directed to interrogate dubious travelers regarding the intent of their journey, their financial provisions, and to keep meticulous documentation of their actions.

Additionally, all irregularities must be reported immediately, and passengers exhibiting suspicious behavior should be investigated further. Authorities have been implored to guarantee comprehensive evaluations of all individuals, particularly those journeying to nations with a significant risk of human trafficking.