Pakistani women beggars stopped from travelling to Saudi Arabia
Spike in Pakistani begging trips abroad raises red flags for human Trafficking
Islamabad: Pakistan's Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) detained eight women from Bahawalnagar at Multan Airport on suspicion of traveling to Saudi Arabia to beg.
The women, identified as Sobia, Khadija, Aasia, Saira, Sajda, Salma, Sameena, and Naghma, were reportedly carrying 200 Saudi Riyals each and were unable to provide sufficient evidence for their trip. They have been transferred to the FIA's anti-human trafficking circle for further investigation.
Disguised as Umrah pilgrims
This incident follows a similar case last December where the FIA apprehended nine individuals, including six women, attempting to travel to Saudi Arabia under the guise of performing Umrah, a Muslim pilgrimage. These passengers also lacked proper documentation for their stay, raising concerns about organized begging rings exploiting religious travel visas.
Crackdown on begging networks
The FIA's spokesperson emphasized their commitment to dismantling such operations through stricter passenger screening procedures. This initiative aligns with previous efforts by the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development, which revealed to the Senate Committee on Overseas Pakistan that a significant number of Pakistanis were being trafficked abroad for forced begging.
The women currently face potential charges related to immigration violations and possible links to human trafficking networks. The extent of their involvement and any additional charges will depend on the FIA's investigation.
Fate of Detained Women
The ultimate fate of the detained women remains unclear. They could face deportation, fines, or even criminal charges depending on the investigation's findings. This incident underscores the complexities surrounding poverty, migration, and the exploitation of vulnerable populations.