KARACHI: Local court granted two-day physical remand of social worker Sarim Burney to Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on human smuggling charges.

Investigation Officer Chaudhry Bilal produced Burney before Judicial Magistrate Khaleequ Zaman. And requested court to order social worker’s 14-day physical remand in police custody. During hearing, Burney’s counsel argued that fake case was registered against his client and requested court to discharge Sarim Burney from case. After hearing arguments, court rejected request to discharge Burney from case and granted his two days remand to FIA. Court also asked investigating officer to produce progress report on next hearing. Federal Investigation Agency registered first information report against rights activist Sarim Burney for allegedly trafficking newborn babies to United States. FIA in statement said that records of allegedly trafficked children were provided by Pakistan Embassy. Citing Trust documents, agency said Burney’s wife was also among beneficiaries. Sources told that wife can also be nominated in case after Sindh government verifies documents. Agency claimed that several individuals assisted Burney in purchasing and smuggling of children.

According to FIA, Haya’s parents are extremely poor and their statements have been recorded. Further cases related to human trafficking and money laundering will be registered against Burney, agency said.