142 Pakistanis in Kuwait jails on drug trafficking charges, NA told

ISLAMABAD: Advisor to Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz told the National Assembly on Monday that 175 Pakistanis, including 142 on drug trafficking charges, have been imprisoned in various jails in Kuwait. Replying to questions, he said in Kuwait drugs trafficking, murder, rape, theft and forgery are very serious crimes with harsh punishments.
Kuwaiti authorities do not officially acknowledge imposition of any ban or restriction on issuance of visas to Pakistanis. However, the visas are restricted for Pakistanis since 2011, because of involvement of 80 percent jailed Pakistanis in drug trafficking.
The relevant departments have already been directed to ensure strict vigilance. The government has taken up the issue with Kuwaiti authorities and a high-power delegation from Kuwait would soon visit Pakistan and hopefully the visa issue for Pakistan would be resolved. Regarding the arrest of TV anchor Moeed Pirzada, he said Pirzada was being provided legal aid.
Commenting on the arrest of Zaid Hamid in Saudi Arabia, he said the ministry was in contact with Saudi authorities. Recently the meeting of Zaid’s wife with him was arranged.