It is estimated that approximately 20,000 Pakistanis are currently imprisoned abroad, according to data from various human rights organizations and government sources. These individuals are facing a range of charges, including drug smuggling, illegal immigration, theft, and even more serious offenses.
Major Countries Holding Pakistani Prisoners
A significant number of Pakistani prisoners are held in Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Oman. Many of these individuals were involved in illegal immigration or violated local labor laws. Other destinations with high Pakistani prisoner counts include Malaysia, Thailand, and various European countries where immigration violations and criminal activities have resulted in arrests.
The Role of Diplomatic Efforts
Pakistan’s government has been working to ensure the rights of these prisoners are respected and that they are treated in accordance with international laws. Pakistani embassies abroad, in collaboration with NGOs, are making efforts to provide legal aid and basic necessities to these prisoners. However, the process of repatriating or resolving cases remains slow due to the diplomatic complexities involved.
Repatriation and Prisoner Exchange
Pakistan has been negotiating bilateral agreements with several countries to facilitate the repatriation of these prisoners. In some cases, prisoner exchange agreements have allowed Pakistani citizens to serve their sentences in their home country. The government also provides financial assistance to families of those jailed abroad, although the scope of this aid remains limited.
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