Sarim Burney, a well-known social activist, was detained upon his arrival at Karachi Airport from the United States, sources confirmed. The detention came amidst serious accusations of human trafficking levelled against him by the US government.
According to sources, Burney was apprehended by the Anti-Human Trafficking Police upon his arrival in Pakistan on the complaint of the US government. It is alleged that Burney and his trust had children adopted in the US without fulfilling the necessary legal requirements, leading to accusations of human trafficking against him.
The sources said that upon his detention, Burney was transferred to an undisclosed location by the authorities. An investigation into the matter was initiated by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).
Meanwhile, Burney's legal team reached the FIA office in Karachi. However, they alleged that they were not being allowed to meet with their client. "We received the information that he has been arrested on his return from America," stated Qadir Hussain, one of Burney's lawyers. "We are not being allowed to meet with our client."
The legal team said they were at the high court, filing a petition against the FIA.
Burney's response
Meanwhile, in response to the allegations, Burney released a video statement from the US before departing for Karachi, denying the charges against him. "I deny the allegations," he asserted. "I will respond to the charges upon my return home."
Burney expressed frustration over the accusations, stating, "A lot of people have slandered me. I've always been silent, but now I will speak and reveal everything. A lot of people have forced me to speak up"
He further emphasized his resolve to address the allegations, stating, "Everything can be tolerated, but not fingers raised at my person." Burney vowed to reveal the facts surrounding the accusations, asserting, "No one can harm whomever Allah has honoured."
