GWADAR: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested 14 individuals in Jiwani for allegedly attempting to illegally cross into Iran, officials said on Wednesday. The operation was carried out by the FIA Composite Circle Gwadar following intelligence about human smuggling networks facilitating illegal movement along the Makran coast.
According to an FIA spokesperson, the suspects were intercepted as they prepared to travel toward the Iranian border using an informal sea route. Preliminary findings suggest the group intended not only to enter Iran unlawfully, but eventually to move onward to other countries through irregular migration channels.
The arrested persons included four residents of Gujranwala, two from Faisalabad, five from Lower Dir, and three from Swabi, Mardan, and Malakand districts. Officials said the individuals had been lured by agents who promised them safe passage to Iran and onward access to jobs in Gulf and European states — a common tactic used by human smugglers operating in the region.
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Makran coast remains a key route for illegal migration
Security agencies have long identified the coastline of Gwadar, Jiwani, and Pasni as a high-risk corridor for irregular migration due to its proximity to Iran and the presence of organised human smuggling networks. In recent months, the FIA has intensified operations in southern Balochistan to curb illegal border crossings, which have seen a surge amid growing economic pressures.
Among the arrested individuals, four belong to Gujranwala, two to Faisalabad, five to Lower Dir, and three to Swabi, Mardan, and Malakand. https://t.co/BPUQqqScl5
— Dawn.com (@dawn_com) November 27, 2025
Officials say that many migrants attempting to reach Iran through informal routes face severe risks, including exploitation by smugglers, harsh terrain, unpredictable sea conditions, and legal consequences once intercepted by Iranian border forces. Several past incidents have resulted in casualties or detentions, prompting Pakistani authorities to expand monitoring across the coastline.
Further investigation under way
The FIA spokesperson said the arrested individuals have been shifted to the agency’s Gwadar office for questioning. Efforts are also under way to trace the agents and facilitators involved in organising the illegal journey. Cases are expected to be registered under the relevant sections of the Human Smuggling and Trafficking Act.
Authorities have reiterated their warning to the public to avoid engaging with unauthorised travel agents and to report suspicious activities to law-enforcement agencies. The FIA said it would continue its crackdown against human smuggling networks operating along the Makran coastal belt.
