Over 23,000 Pakistanis Imprisoned Globally for Various Crimes

A recent report from Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs reveals that over 23,000 Pakistanis are currently imprisoned worldwide for a variety of serious offenses. The largest number of these inmates are in Saudi Arabia, followed by the UAE. The report highlights troubling statistics regarding drug trafficking, murder, and other crimes committed by Pakistani nationals abroad. This situation raises significant concerns about the legal challenges faced by these individuals in foreign jurisdictions. Read on to learn more about the specific countries and the nature of the crimes involved.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 19, 2025, 18:50 IST

Significant Number of Pakistanis in Foreign Prisons

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Pakistan has revealed to the National Assembly that more than 23,000 Pakistani nationals are incarcerated in various countries due to a wide range of offenses, as reported by a local media outlet.

As per the information shared, a total of 23,456 Pakistanis are currently imprisoned abroad, with Saudi Arabia housing the largest contingent of 12,156 inmates, according to the Ministry's statement.

During a question hour session in the lower house, the ministry disclosed that the United Arab Emirates ranks second, with 5,292 Pakistani prisoners.

Among the 400 Pakistanis detained in China, many have been convicted for serious crimes including drug smuggling, murder, robbery, and counterfeit currency offenses.

In Bahrain, 450 Pakistanis are serving sentences primarily for drug trafficking and fraud-related crimes. Afghanistan has also convicted 88 Pakistanis for overstaying and security-related violations.

In Qatar, the situation remains dire, with 338 Pakistanis sentenced for offenses such as theft, murder, and financial fraud, while Oman has convicted 309 individuals for drug trafficking and related crimes.

Malaysia has reported 255 Pakistani convictions for similar offenses, including illegal entry.

In Europe, the situation is not much better. Austria has indicated that Pakistanis are imprisoned for illegal entry and trafficking offenses, although specific numbers were not disclosed. Norway has three detained Pakistanis without detailed charges, while Finland has convicted two without specifying the crimes. France and Germany have reported 168 and 94 Pakistani prisoners, respectively.

Other nations with Pakistani prisoners include Canada with nine, Denmark with 27, and Azerbaijan, where 11 out of 16 prisoners were convicted for serious crimes including murder and trafficking. In Turkiye, 147 individuals are convicted, with 161 awaiting trial for various offenses such as drug trafficking and sexual assault.