Italy arrests nine Pakistanis for allegedly smuggling migrants

ROME: Italian authorities arrested nine Pakistani nationals last week on suspicion of migrant smuggling along the Balkan route, as per SchengenVisaInfo.

The arrests came following an investigation by Tuscany’s Siena Flying Squad, which uncovered an organization allegedly dedicated to facilitating illegal migration through the Balkans, reports SchengenVisaInfo.

According to the Italian news agency Ansa, all detained individuals are facing charges related to orchestrating the unlawful entry of multiple compatriots, along with allegations of robbery, assault, and attempted extortion.

Read more: Punjab govt unveils environmental conservation project

The investigation into the smuggling ring began last year after an incident where two Pakistani citizens were assaulted by individuals believed to be linked to the criminal network. One victim was forcibly held in a Siena apartment, revealing an attempted kidnapping aimed at extorting additional funds for his journey to Italy. INP