ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s National Assembly Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Rights has raised serious concerns over shocking reports of atrocities against citizens trapped in Cambodia. Lawmakers were informed that Pakistanis are being held hostage, tortured, extorted, and even trafficked for organ sales.
During a meeting, committee chairman Agha Rafiullah expressed anger after learning that nearly 18,000 Pakistanis traveled to Cambodia within just one year. He accused the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) of failing to monitor departures and questioned why individuals on fresh passports are allowed to leave under the pretext of tourism.
Reports suggest that many victims were deceived by fraudulent agents and taken to Cambodia, which borders Thailand and Vietnam. Once there, they were allegedly kidnapped, electrocuted, and forced into criminal networks. In some cases, organs were removed and sold illegally.
Rafiullah stressed that Cambodia offers no major tourism or business opportunities, raising suspicion over the high number of travelers. He pointed out that despite the Ministry of Foreign Affairs rescuing 700 victims, thousands more have entered the country unchecked.
Lawmakers criticized the FIA and questioned the effectiveness of the Bureau of Immigration, especially with its director general (DG) post lying vacant. “If thousands are leaving for a country that has nothing to offer, why has this not been stopped?” Rafiullah asked.
Committee member Mehreen Bhutto highlighted the desperation of educated professionals who are leaving Pakistan due to limited opportunities at home. She stressed that lack of employment is fueling this dangerous trend.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis underscored the economic role of expatriates, revealing that remittances reached $38 billion in 2024-25.
The committee called for strict action against trafficking agents and stronger border checks to protect citizens from falling prey to criminal networks operating in Cambodia.
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