ISLAMABAD: Tragedy struck when 21-year-old Muhammad Akash, a Pakistani migrant, made a heartbreaking phone call to his family before boarding a precarious fishing trawler in Libya in search of a better future in Europe. Little did he know that his journey would end in disaster off the coast of Greece, where he was among the hundreds who drowned, according to his uncle Amanat Ali.
Akash’s family received the devastating news after his friends, who were also on the ill-fated boat, survived and delivered the tragic update. Hailing from the town of Khuiratta, Akash had embarked on the perilous journey three months ago, following in the footsteps of two friends who had already made their way to Italy through similar means.
Thousands of Pakistanis undertake the treacherous journey to Europe each year in hopes of a better life, with an established network of people smugglers exploiting their aspirations. In response to the recent tragedy, Pakistani officials announced the arrest of ten suspected human traffickers, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif vowed severe punishment for those involved in the trade.
Pakistani Migrants Hope for Better Future in Europe
Pakistan’s dire economic situation, marked by a severe downturn, inflation, and widespread factory closures, has driven many Pakistanis to seek illegal routes to Europe. Akash, whose father passed away 12 years ago, had been assisting his older brother in managing the family-owned catering business in Khuiratta. Fascinated by the improved living standards of locals with roots in Europe, he became determined to follow suit.
Akash’s family pooled their resources to pay an agent two million rupees (approximately $7,000) to organize his journey, which included a flight to Dubai, then onward to Egypt, and finally to Libya. Despite their attempts to dissuade him, Akash remained resolute in his decision. On Monday, he made the fateful call expressing his fears about the forthcoming boat journey.
Prime Minister Sharif declared a national day of mourning for the victims, as local media estimates suggest that up to 300 Pakistanis may have been on board the ill-fated boat. The devastating news has left Akash’s family in deep sorrow, particularly his mother, who holds a special place for him among her children. Unable to find the courage to disclose the truth, the family has informed her that he has sustained injuries.
