The NA Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Rights has raised serious concerns over reports that Pakistani citizens are being tortured, held hostage, and sold for their organs in Cambodia.
During a meeting, the committee criticized the Ministry of Interior for failing to monitor the large number of Pakistanis traveling abroad. It was revealed that 18,000 Pakistanis traveled to Cambodia within a year, raising suspicions about human trafficking and illegal organ trade.
Committee Chairman Agha Rafiullah accused the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) of facilitating these departures. He questioned why officials fail to properly scrutinize individuals traveling on fresh passports under the pretext of tourism.
Lawmakers highlighted multiple complaints indicating that Pakistanis in Cambodia, near Thailand and Vietnam, have faced kidnapping, electrocution, extortion, and forced organ removal. Many victims were reportedly lured by fraudulent agents and trafficked for illegal purposes.
The NA Committee strongly criticized the FIA and raised concerns over the vacant position of director general (DG) at the Bureau of Immigration. Chairman Rafiullah questioned how thousands could travel to Cambodia despite recent rescues of 700 people by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Committee member Mehreen Bhutto pointed out that even educated professionals are seeking opportunities abroad due to limited prospects in Pakistan. She emphasized the need for stricter monitoring of overseas travel.
Officials from the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis highlighted the economic importance of expatriates, noting that Pakistanis sent $38 billion in remittances in 2024-25.
The NA Committee urged immediate action to prevent further trafficking and organ trade targeting Pakistani citizens. Lawmakers stressed the need for stronger policies and enforcement to ensure the safety of Pakistanis traveling abroad.
The committee’s warnings underscore the growing concerns about human rights violations and the urgent need for oversight of international travel by Pakistani citizens.
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