ISLAMABAD, May 7: The government on Wednesday reiterated its pledge to stop smuggling of children who are used as camel jockeys in Gulf countries.

“The government is taking every possible step to stop this heinous crime and will take strict action against any government functionary and other elements found involved in it,” Prime Minister’s Adviser on Interior Rehman Malik said after a meeting with UAE Ambassador Ali Mohammad Al-Shamsi at the interior ministry.

He said the immigration authorities and other security agencies had been asked to take stern action against people involved in the smuggling of children for camel races.

“A directive has been issued to the director general of FIA in this regard,” he said.

Mr Malik appreciated the role of UAE leaders in controlling child smuggling. He said that without their cooperation and will it was impossible to deal with the menace.