One Pakistani Confirmed Dead, 47 Rescued in Greece Boat Tragedy: Foreign Office
Islamabad – The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) confirmed on Sunday that one Pakistani national has been identified among the casualties in a recent boat capsizing off the southern coast of Greece. However, the number of deceased or missing Pakistanis remains uncertain.
In a statement, MoFA spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said, “At this stage, we are unable to confirm the number of deceased or missing Pakistani nationals.”
Rescue Efforts Underway
According to Greek authorities, 39 individuals, mostly from Pakistan, were rescued by cargo vessels in the area and transferred to Crete. MoFA reported that embassy officials have reached Crete to assist the rescued Pakistanis and ensure their well-being.
The Embassy of Pakistan in Athens has activated its Crisis Management Unit (CMU) to coordinate support for affected Pakistanis and their families. Pakistani citizens in Greece are urged to contact the CMU through its helpline (+92-51-9207887) or email (cmu1@mofa.gov.pk). Families seeking information about missing relatives can reach the embassy at (+30-6943850188).
Government Promises Crackdown on Human Trafficking
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, condemning the incident, described human trafficking as a “heinous crime that destroys countless lives annually.” He pledged severe action against those responsible, calling traffickers a “cruel mafia” exploiting vulnerable individuals with false promises of better futures.
The Prime Minister directed Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to submit a detailed inquiry report and initiate concrete measures to prevent such tragedies. Naqvi has ordered a nationwide crackdown on human smuggling networks, with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) launching immediate operations against those involved.
“The government will not rest until these networks are dismantled. These traffickers have ruined countless families, and we must ensure such tragedies do not recur,” Naqvi stated.
Tragedy Highlights Ongoing Migrant Crisis
The Greek coastguard reported that at least five migrants drowned when the overcrowded wooden boat capsized near Gavdos island. Search and rescue operations are still underway as many individuals remain unaccounted for.
This incident recalls the devastating June 2023 boat disaster off the Greek coast, where hundreds of migrants, including 209 Pakistanis, lost their lives.
President Asif Ali Zardari also condemned human trafficking, calling it a “vile practice” and extending condolences to the victims’ families. He urged law enforcement agencies to intensify their efforts to combat trafficking networks and protect innocent lives.
As the migrant crisis continues to claim lives, the Pakistani government has reiterated its commitment to eradicating human trafficking and supporting affected families.
