Tragic Toll: Over 100 Pakistanis Lost in Illegal Migration in 2025
Synopsis
In a distressing report, 109 Pakistani nationals were among over 2,700 individuals who died or disappeared globally in 2025 while trying to migrate illegally. This alarming statistic underscores the grave dangers facing migrants today.
Key Takeaways
109 Pakistani nationals died or went missing in 2025.
Over 2,700 migrants from Asia-Pacific faced similar fates.
The highest fatalities were reported from Afghanistan .
Migration fatalities may be underreported.
The FIA is actively monitoring illegal migration attempts.
Islamabad, April 2 (NationPress) In 2025, a grim total of 109 Pakistani nationals were reported among at least 2,722 individuals from the Asia-Pacific region who either died or went missing globally while attempting to enter other countries illegally, according to the latest figures released by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
This represents the second consecutive year in which the number of fatalities exceeded 2,700, highlighting the ongoing dangers that migrants face and the critical need to enhance protections for those on the move, as stated by the IOM. This data was compiled through the 'IOM Missing Migrants Project 2026', reported by Pakistan's prominent daily, Dawn.
The IOM statistics indicate that the largest number of deaths or disappearances during migration occurred among individuals from Afghanistan, totaling 1,540, followed by 935 from Myanmar. Pakistan ranked third with 109 nationals, trailed by 80 from Bangladesh. The IOM warns that the actual number of fatalities on these migration routes could be significantly higher due to the secretive nature of illegal movements and the challenges in tracking migrant deaths, as reported by Dawn.
In a related incident, in March, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) of Pakistan removed two passengers from a flight at the Multan International Airport over their alleged attempt to misuse an Umrah visa to enter Europe, according to local media reports.
A spokesperson for the FIA indicated that immigration officials acted during routine checks on outbound passengers. The two individuals, Sikander Alam and Noor Islam, were initially headed to Saudi Arabia for Umrah. However, further inquiries raised suspicions, leading officials to conduct a more thorough screening.
Upon additional investigation, Moroccan visas were discovered in the passports of both Alam and Islam. They eventually confessed that their intended destination was actually Spain, not Saudi Arabia.
The FIA noted that this incident aligns with recent alerts about increasing attempts by individuals to exploit Umrah visas as a means to enter Europe illegally through Morocco.
Following these revelations, both individuals were offloaded from the flight and taken to the FIA Composite Circle in Multan for further questioning.
Point of View
The alarming number of Pakistani nationals disappearing or dying while attempting illegal migration highlights a significant humanitarian crisis. It is crucial for the government to address the factors driving this trend and ensure the protection of migrants’ rights.
NationPress
11 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the source of the migration statistics?
The statistics come from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) as part of the 'IOM Missing Migrants Project 2026'.
How many people died or went missing in 2025?
At least 2,722 individuals from the Asia-Pacific region died or disappeared in 2025 while trying to enter other countries illegally.
What actions did the FIA take regarding the recent case?
The FIA removed two passengers from a flight for allegedly attempting to misuse an Umrah visa to enter Europe.
What are the main reasons for illegal migration?
Factors include economic hardship, political instability, and the quest for better living conditions.
What is the IOM's role in this issue?
The IOM works to monitor migration trends, provide support to migrants, and advocate for their rights.
