Iran arrested over 10,000 Pakistanis trying to enter Europe illegally

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) reported that over 10,000 Pakistani citizens attempting to enter Iran illegally, with plans to reach Europe, were detained by Iranian authorities this year.

According to FIA officials, a total of 10,454 Pakistanis were detained in Iran between January and December 15, 2024. These individuals had entered Iran via illegal routes in Balochistan.

After their arrests, the Iranian authorities handed over the detainees to Pakistan in the border city of Taftan, located in Chagai district.

In addition to Pakistani nationals, Afghan citizens have also been attempting to reach European countries via Balochistan, but many are being arrested in Iran during their journey.

Officials noted that the arrest rate in Iran significantly increased in 2024, with a higher number of Pakistani citizens detained compared to the previous year, when 8,272 Pakistanis were arrested.

Data from the FIA showed that over 62,000 Pakistanis were arrested in Iran for illegal entry between 2020 and 2024.

The majority of those arrested this year come from Punjab, while the five districts of Balochistan including Chagai, Washuk, Panjgur, Kech, and Gwadar—continue to serve as major border areas for these illegal crossings.