G7 to explore possible sanctions on criminals linked to migrant smuggling, draft document says

KANANASKIS, Alberta, June 16 (Reuters) - G7 leaders are set to reaffirm a joint commitment that they agreed to a year ago to prevent and counter migrant smuggling, and will explore using sanctions to target criminals involved in smuggling, according to a draft outcome document seen by Reuters on Monday.

"Migrant smuggling often has links to other serious criminal offences, including money laundering, corruption and trafficking in persons and drugs, that threaten the safety of our communities," the document said.

The document, one of seven being prepared for consensus among the world leaders, tasked interior and security ministers with doubling down on efforts to follow the money trail of smuggling groups, boosting prevention with countries of origin and transit, collaborating with social media companies and engaging with transport operators to prevent the facilitation of irregular migration.

"We will explore, consistent with our legal systems, the potential use of sanctions to target criminals involved in migrant smuggling and human trafficking operations from countries where those activities emanate," the document said. (Reporting by John Irish Editing by Rod Nickel)