Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed on Wednesday the authorities to take the strictest action against traffickers.

According to details, the premier chaired a high-level meeting on human trafficking following another tragic incident involving Pakistani victims. On this occasion, PM Shehbaz had expressed anger over the lack of implementation of his previous orders regarding the 2023 boat accident.

PM Shehbaz demanded details of Pakistani deaths due to human trafficking over the past year and instructed action against officers responsible for delays in legal proceedings.

The officials briefed the prime minister and revealed that 174 cases had been presented in court so far, leading to convictions in only four instances.

PM Shehbaz had criticised the slow pace of action, terming repeated incidents a grim reminder of the issue.

Referring to the 2023 boat tragedy in Greece, where over 250 Pakistanis lost their lives, he called it a national shame and reiterated the need for robust measures to prevent such crimes.

Authorities were ordered to collaborate with international organisations and intensify public awareness campaigns.

Also Read: Greece boat tragedy: Shazia Marri demands action against human traffickers

Separately, few days back, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Shazia Atta Marri said that the human traffickers must be brought to justice in line with the Greece boat tragedy.

Expressing her thoughts, Marri said, "The involvement of individuals in the heinous act of human trafficking must be met with justice. The human trafficking represents a grave violation of human rights."

She further urged authorities to bring those responsible, including their facilitators, under legal scrutiny.

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