Thirteen Pakistani nationals who tragically lost their lives in a boat disaster near the coast of Morocco have been officially identified, diplomatic sources confirmed. The identification process was carried out after a thorough forensic examination and verification by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA).
Initial Reports and Recovery Efforts
On January 15, initial reports suggested that 44 Pakistanis had perished in the maritime tragedy. However, only 13 bodies were recovered from the sea, and at the time, they lacked proper documentation, making it impossible to immediately identify them. NADRA conducted a meticulous verification process using fingerprint records and photographic analysis to establish their identities. With the confirmation now complete, authorities have initiated procedures to repatriate the deceased to Pakistan, allowing their families to lay them to rest.
Return of Survivors and Interrogation
In an earlier development, seven Pakistani survivors of the tragedy were successfully brought back home. The survivors—identified as Muhammad Asif, Muhammad Abbas, Mudassar Hussain, Imran Iqbal, Uzair Basharat, Shoaib Zafar, and Aamir Ali—belong to various cities, including Gujarat, Hafizabad, Sialkot, Mandi Bahauddin, and Gujranwala. Upon their arrival at Islamabad Airport, they were immediately taken into custody by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) for questioning regarding the circumstances of the incident.
Torture and Ransom Demands by Human Traffickers
During their interrogations, the survivors revealed horrifying details of their ordeal. They disclosed that they had been subjected to brutal torture by human traffickers who had orchestrated the dangerous journey. Many of them were reportedly held captive before being allowed to board the vessel. The survivors further claimed that 21 Pakistani migrants were only permitted to embark on the ill-fated boat after their families paid a ransom.
The accounts provided by the survivors paint a grim picture of the conditions on board. Many of the victims succumbed to extreme cold, inhumane treatment, and severe deprivation, as they were left without adequate food and drinking water. Survivors recounted how some of their fellow passengers collapsed due to exhaustion and starvation, with no medical assistance available.
International Human Trafficking Network Exposed
The investigation into the tragedy has uncovered the involvement of an extensive human trafficking network that operates across multiple countries. Sources indicate that the boat was being managed by smugglers linked to a larger international trafficking ring, with operatives from Senegal, Mauritania, and Morocco.
Authorities believe that these criminal networks prey on vulnerable individuals seeking a better future, promising them safe passage to Europe. However, instead of ensuring their safety, they exploit the migrants for financial gain, often subjecting them to life-threatening conditions.
FIA’s Ongoing Investigation
Following the testimonies of the survivors, the FIA has expanded its probe to dismantle the trafficking syndicate responsible for the tragedy. Efforts are being made to track down those involved in facilitating illegal migration, including local handlers and recruiters who lure desperate individuals into these perilous journeys.
The Pakistani government has vowed to take strict action against human trafficking networks and has urged people to avoid falling prey to false promises made by smugglers. Meanwhile, the families of the deceased are awaiting the return of their loved ones’ remains, hoping for justice and accountability for those responsible.
