KARACHI: Sindh government has reversed its decision to take control of administrative affairs of Sarim Burney Welfare Trust amid allegations of child trafficking.

Sindh government had earlier decided to take control of trust’s affairs after Federal Investigation Agency requested intervention due to trust’s alleged involvement in smuggling children to United States and other countries. However, Social Welfare Department has retracted its July 18th directive to take control of Sarim Burney Trust’s affairs. Development comes amid allegations of child smuggling against Sarim Burney, who was arrested on June 6th at Karachi Airport on request of United States Consulate. In first FIR, investigation agency booked rights activist for ‘trafficking’ newborn baby-identified as Haya to US. Haya, who according to FIA was last girl trafficked to US, was allegedly bought from her parents for Rs 1 million. Sarim Burney trafficked 20 newborns to US in past year on pretext of adoption. FIA claimed that 15 of trafficked children were girls. 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. Agency further 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. Burney was under surveillance by American authorities during his recent visit to US and he was interrogated twice by American officials, FIA said. After his arrest, Burney admitted to his involvement in illegal adoption and trafficking of children.