Title: Tragedy Strikes: Repatriation of Pakistani Nationals Following Fatal Boat Accident in Morocco
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs revealed on Saturday that 22 Pakistani nationals, survivors of a recent maritime disaster near the Dakhla port of Morocco, are set to be repatriated to Pakistan in stages. This move comes after a devastating boat accident that claimed the lives of 50 migrants, including 44 Pakistanis.
Foreign Office spokesperson, Shafqat Ali Khan, confirmed on Sunday that, contrary to initial reports, 21 Pakistani nationals managed to survive the tragic incident. Following extensive investigations and collaboration with Moroccan authorities, the repatriation process is now underway in a phased approach.
The Pakistan Embassy in Rabat has been diligently working alongside local authorities to oversee relief efforts and finalize the repatriation process. Khan emphasized the crucial role played by the consular team in Dakhla in planning the survivors’ return, with the Foreign Ministry’s Crisis Management Unit actively monitoring the situation.
The ill-fated incident unfolded on January 16 when a boat, carrying irregular migrants from Mauritania to Spain, capsized off the Moroccan coast. Departing from Mauritania on January 2, the vessel was carrying 86 migrants, 66 of whom were Pakistani nationals. Moroccan authorities reported that the tragedy struck in the waters off the coast of Dakhla, with 36 survivors rescued.
In a parallel effort, the ministry is also facilitating the return of 11 Pakistani nationals from Mauritania who have chosen to voluntarily return to Pakistan. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government has launched an in-depth investigation into the accident, forming a special committee to oversee the inquiry into the boat tragedy in Morocco.
Ensuring the welfare of Pakistani nationals abroad remains a top priority for the government, with the Foreign Ministry committed to providing ongoing support and assistance to the affected families. As the repatriation efforts continue and the investigation unfolds, the nation stands in solidarity with those impacted by this heartbreaking event.
