Pakistan's Zaheer Ahmed wins US award for anti-human trafficking efforts
- By Salah Uddin -
- Jun 16, 2023
The United States (US) has honoured a Pakistani officer, Zaheer Ahmed, with a prestigious in recognition of his tireless efforts to curb human trafficking.
Zaheer Ahmed, who is currently serving as Deputy Inspector General in Pakistan’s Police Service, and previously served as Director of the Federal Investigative Agency’s (FIA) Anti-Human Smuggling Unit, was bestowed with the 2023 Trafficking in Persons Report Hero award at a ceremony.
US State Secretary Antony Blinken presented the awards to eight recipients, including Mr Ahmed. The TIP report is released by the US annually.
Today I presented the 2023 TIP Report Hero award to eight individuals who exemplify exceptional efforts to #EndHumanTrafficking. Thank you for your courage and commitment to this work. Read more about the heroes in @JTIP_State’s 2023 #TIPReport on https://t.co/0odi0ZeoGP. pic.twitter.com/YFWOYKtU6c
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) June 15, 2023
As the director of the FIA “the lead agency in Pakistan on anti-human trafficking” Zaheer Ahmed has been at the forefront of numerous initiatives aimed at capacity building of law enforcement agencies, social welfare, and labor departments on preventing, identifying, and assisting on anti-human trafficking.
The FIA worked efficiently to train law enforcement agencies, social welfare, and labor departments, and collaborated with government entities to eradicate this modern-day form of slavery.
The Trafficking in Persons Report Heroes Award acknowledges the exceptional efforts of individuals like Zaheer Ahmed, whose dedication and determination inspire other officers to act. His unwavering commitment to the cause has earned him the respect and admiration of his peers.
Upon receiving the award, Zaheer Ahmed expressed his gratitude and dedicated the recognition to all the colleagues he has worked with, stating, “This award is a testament to the resilience and strength of the teamwork. I am humbled and honored to receive this recognition, and I will continue to fight alongside my peers until human trafficking is eradicated from our world.”