FIA Launches Probe Into Karate Team's Moscow Trip Over Trafficking Allegations

The Anti-Human Trafficking Circle of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Peshawar Zone has received a complaint regarding the recent visit of the Pakistan Kyokushin Kan Karate team to Moscow, Russia.

The complaint alleges that unrelated individuals were included in the team in an attempt to facilitate their escape to Europe.

According to sources, the Nation Cup Karate Tournament held in Moscow from February 28 to March 2 was allegedly used as a cover for human smuggling. The coaches and other team members are reportedly from Landi Kotal, Khyber district.

Deputy Director Rana Shahid Habib of the FIA Peshawar Zone's Anti-Human Trafficking Circle, while speaking to media representatives, said that a comprehensive investigation will be conducted into all office-bearers and members of the Kyokushin Kan Karate team who participated in the Moscow event.

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He stated that the team list will be thoroughly examined, and if any individual is found involved in attempting to flee to Europe after arriving in Russia, legal action will be taken against those responsible in accordance with the law.

Rana Shahid Habib further said that authorities are closely monitoring human smuggling activities carried out under the guise of sports in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and indiscriminate action will be taken against those involved.

Sources also revealed that evidence has surfaced suggesting that some officials of certain government and non-government federations and associations allegedly used international competitions for illegal activities. Investigations are ongoing, and cases will be registered if concrete evidence is found.

The Deputy Director added that all associations and federations will be required to obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from relevant authorities before participating in international competitions.

They will also be obligated to ensure complete verification of players' information and documents to prevent the inclusion of fake athletes and discourage incidents of individuals disappearing abroad.

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