10,000+ Pakistanis Arrested in Iran While Heading to Europe
Officials added that the number of arrests in Iran in 2024 has been higher compared to 2023.
Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has stated that more than 10,000 Pakistani citizens were arrested in Iran this year while attempting to illegally travel abroad.
According to FIA officials, between January and December 15 this year, 10,454 Pakistani citizens were arrested in Iran after entering through unconventional routes in Balochistan.
Pakistani authorities have said that after their arrest at various times, the Iranian government handed over these individuals to Pakistan in the border town of Taftan in the Chagai district.
The FIA reports that not only Pakistanis but also Afghan citizens attempt to reach European countries in search of a better future via Balochistan’s routes, but many are arrested in Iran.
Officials added that the number of arrests in Iran in 2024 has been higher compared to 2023. Last year, 8,272 Pakistanis were arrested in Iran.
According to FIA data, over 62,000 Pakistani citizens have been arrested for illegally entering Iran between 2020 and 2024.
Officials mentioned that most of the arrested Pakistanis are from Punjab, and the five districts of Balochistan Chagai, Washuk, Panjgur, Kech, and Gwadar—share borders with Iran.