FIA Cracks Down on Human Trafficking Network Targeting Pakistanis for Cambodia
Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency has dismantled a dangerous human trafficking network that was exploiting young Pakistanis by luring them to Cambodia under the guise of lucrative overseas jobs. The arrests mark a significant step in the country’s ongoing efforts to combat transnational crime and protect vulnerable citizens from organized exploitation.
According to senior FIA officials, the gang consisted of six members operating across borders. Four suspects were based in Pakistan, while two key facilitators were operating from Cambodia. Together, they formed a coordinated network that preyed on unemployed and financially struggling youth, particularly those eager to seek better opportunities abroad.
Investigators revealed that the group used fake overseas job advertisements to attract victims. These ads promised high-paying employment in fields such as customer support, IT services, and online businesses. Victims were contacted through social media platforms and messaging apps, making the scam appear legitimate and difficult to detect at first glance.
Once trust was established, the suspects arranged travel documents and visas, often charging large sums of money as processing fees. Upon arrival in Cambodia, many victims reportedly found themselves trapped. Instead of legal employment, they were allegedly handed over to criminal syndicates involved in cyber fraud and other illegal activities.
FIA officials stated that some victims were forced to work long hours under harsh conditions, while others faced threats, physical abuse, and restrictions on their movement. Passports were often confiscated, leaving victims with little chance of escape or seeking help from authorities.
The FIA deputy director emphasized that the arrested suspects will be charged under Pakistan’s anti-human trafficking and cybercrime laws. He also confirmed that efforts are underway to coordinate with Cambodian authorities to arrest remaining facilitators and to rescue Pakistanis who may still be held by criminal groups abroad.
This case has once again highlighted the growing threat of online recruitment scams targeting Pakistani youth. Law enforcement agencies have urged the public to verify overseas job offers through official government channels and to avoid paying money to unregistered agents or individuals claiming to offer quick employment abroad.
Officials also stressed the importance of awareness, stating that families should remain vigilant and report suspicious advertisements to the FIA’s cyber crime wing. As global job markets become more accessible through digital platforms, criminals are increasingly exploiting this openness to traffic people across borders.
The FIA’s action sends a clear message that Pakistan will not tolerate networks that profit from human suffering. Authorities say investigations are ongoing, and more arrests are expected as the agency continues to trace financial transactions and digital evidence linked to the gang.
