The Judicial Magistrate East has once again denied bail to Sarim Burney, who faces charges of human smuggling and document forgery. The court had reserved its decision on Burney’s bail application. This marks the second rejection of Burney’s bail plea. He remains in custody on judicial remand as investigations continue. Burney, an activist and founder of the Sarim Burney Welfare Trust, was arrested on June 6 at Karachi Airport at the request of the US Consulate.
The initial FIR alleges that Burney was involved in trafficking a newborn baby named Haya to the United States. According to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Haya was reportedly purchased from her parents for Rs1 million. The FIA claims that Burney had trafficked 20 newborns to the US over the past year under the guise of adoption, with 15 of the children being girls. The FIA stated that records of the trafficked children were provided by the Pakistan Embassy, and that Burney’s wife was listed as a beneficiary in the Trust documents. The agency also alleges that several individuals aided Burney in the purchase and smuggling of these children. The FIA reported that Haya’s parents are impoverished, and their statements have been documented.
The agency plans to file additional cases related to human trafficking and money laundering against Burney. During his recent visit to the US, Burney was under surveillance by American authorities and was interrogated twice. Following his arrest, Burney reportedly confessed to his involvement in illegal adoptions and child trafficking. Sarim Burney, known for his philanthropic work through the Sarim Burney Welfare Trust, which has provided aid to many impoverished and victimized children and women, is facing serious charges that have overshadowed his charitable efforts.
