Tragedy at Sea: Migrant Boat Sinks Near Libya, Pakistanis Affected
In a heartbreaking incident, a boat carrying dozens of migrants, including Pakistani nationals, capsized off the coast of Libya, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed on Monday. The vessel, reportedly carrying around 65 passengers, overturned near Marsa Dela, northwest of Zawiya City. Authorities are still working to verify the legal status of those on board, with the ministry’s spokesperson stating that Pakistani officials are gathering further details.
The Pakistan Embassy in Tripoli has swiftly responded by dispatching a team to Zawiya Hospital to assist in identifying the deceased and determining the number of Pakistanis affected. The embassy is also coordinating with local authorities to provide support to survivors and families of the victims.
Crisis Management and Helplines Activated
To address the situation, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has activated its Crisis Management Unit (CMU). The ministry has urged affected families to reach out for assistance through the following helplines:
- Helpline: 051-9207887
- WhatsApp: +92 305 2185882
- Cellphone: +218 913870577
- WhatsApp: +218 91-6425435
A Growing List of Migrant Boat Tragedies
This latest incident adds to a series of migrant boat disasters in recent months, many of which have claimed the lives of Pakistani nationals:
- January 2024: Over 40 Pakistanis died when a boat carrying irregular migrants from Mauritania to Spain capsized. Of the 86 passengers, 66 were Pakistani nationals. Moroccan authorities rescued 36 survivors.
- December 2023: More than 80 Pakistanis drowned after boats carrying them capsized near Greece on the night of December 13-14.
Also Read: FIA Cracks Down on Beggars Traveling to the Middle East
Illegal Migration: A Desperate Gamble
Driven by economic hardships and the dream of a better future, many migrants continue to risk their lives by paying human traffickers to take them to Europe. The Shehbaz Sharif-led government has vowed to take strict action against both smugglers and officials facilitating illegal migration. So far:
- 35 FIA officials have been dismissed.
- Former FIA Director General Ahmad Ishaq Jahangir was removed over slow investigations into illegal migration and boat tragedies.
Religious Edict Against Illegal Migration
In a significant move, Lahore’s Jamia Naeemia has issued a religious decree condemning illegal migration. The edict, issued by Dr. Mufti Raghib Hussain Naeemi and Mufti Imran Hanfi, states:
- Using illegal means to travel abroad is unlawful and against Shariah.
- Suicide or actions that endanger life are strictly forbidden in Islam.
- Agents and middlemen profiting from illegal migration should be held accountable.
The decree urges the government to enforce laws against such practices and advises citizens to seek legal and safe ways to travel abroad.
A Grim Reminder of the Dangers
As authorities continue to investigate, this tragic incident serves as another stark reminder of the perils of illegal migration. It underscores the urgent need for comprehensive action to address the root causes of migration, crack down on human trafficking networks, and provide safer alternatives for those seeking better opportunities abroad.
