FIA Recovers Over Rs. 615 Million in Crackdown on Illegal Visa Agents

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) in Islamabad has dismantled a network of 190 illegal visa agents, seizing over Rs. 615 million during a four-month operation targeting human smuggling and visa fraud. The Anti-Human Trafficking Circles (AHTCs) in Islamabad and Rawalpindi jointly registered 1,543 cases during the crackdown. AHTC Islamabad led the charge, arresting 120 agents, recovering Rs.

411.05 million, and filing 875 cases. Meanwhile, AHTC Rawalpindi took action against 70 agents, recovering Rs. 204.5 million and filing 668 cases. The FIA reaffirmed its commitment to combating human smugglers and visa fraud schemes promoting false overseas employment promises. Citizens are urged to verify visa agent credentials and report any suspicious activities to authorities.

Separately, the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency in Rawalpindi dismantled a cyber fraud ring targeting foreign nationals. Three suspects, including a woman, were arrested for posing as bank representatives and law enforcement officials to extort money through deceit. The suspects were apprehended after a raid on a private housing society, with further legal action expected under Pakistan's electronic crime laws.