LAHORE: Twelve Pakistani nationals have allegedly been kidnapped in Iran after being lured by human smugglers with false promises of being transported to Europe, according to Pakistani authorities.
Officials said the victims had paid large sums of money to traffickers who claimed they would arrange their illegal journey to Italy via Iran. Instead, the young men were reportedly abducted after entering Iran.
According to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Lahore Zone, the suspected human smugglers allegedly subjected the victims to physical abuse and sent videos of the assault to their families while demanding ransom for their release.
The disturbing videos were reportedly used to pressure relatives into paying additional money, highlighting the dangers associated with illegal migration networks operating across the region.
An FIA spokesperson confirmed that a criminal case has been registered and raids are being conducted to arrest those involved in the trafficking operation.
Authorities have also established special investigation teams to trace the victims and identify the criminal network responsible for the alleged kidnapping.
The FIA said it is coordinating with relevant authorities abroad to determine the whereabouts of the missing Pakistanis and to facilitate their safe recovery.
Human trafficking remains a serious challenge for Pakistan, with many young people risking dangerous and illegal journeys to Europe through smuggling routes that pass through countries such as Iran, Türkiye, and Libya. These routes are often controlled by organized criminal groups that exploit migrants by demanding additional payments, subjecting them to violence, or abandoning them during transit.
Pakistani authorities have repeatedly warned citizens against relying on illegal migration channels, stressing that human smugglers frequently deceive people with false promises of employment and safe travel before exploiting them financially and physically.
The investigation into the latest case is ongoing, while law enforcement agencies continue efforts to arrest the suspects and secure the release of the kidnapped Pakistani nationals.
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