FIA launches crackdown on foreign suspects over online fraud

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has launched a major crackdown against foreign nationals allegedly involved in organised online fraud in Pakistan.

The operation was initiated on the directions of FIA Director General Usman Anwar. As part of the action, the Ministry of Interior has cancelled the visas of 284 foreign nationals, according to sources.

The arrested foreigners have been issued one-time exit permits valid for 15 days. Authorities have completed the necessary legal and travel arrangements for their departure from Pakistan.

According to FIA officials, the suspects allegedly used fake identities, including profiles portraying them as women, to establish contact with Pakistani citizens.

Investigators say the suspects allegedly approached people through different mobile applications and online platforms. They reportedly attracted victims with investment offers and then defrauded them of money.

The FIA director general said the investigation had uncovered serious and disturbing information about the alleged fraud network. He said several Pakistani citizens had suffered financial losses as a result of organised online scams.

Investigators have also identified local facilitators and handlers who allegedly assisted the foreign suspects. The FIA said action would be taken against all individuals found to have supported the alleged criminal network.

Usman Anwar stressed that no person involved in facilitating the suspected activities would be spared because of their position or status.

Sources said investigators are also examining whether some government officials may have provided assistance to the suspects. The possible involvement of officials is being investigated separately.

Special teams formed on the directions of the FIA chief have completed the required legal and travel procedures. Most of the arrested foreign nationals had reportedly entered Pakistan on tourist or visit visas.

According to sources, all 284 foreigners will be sent out of Pakistan within 15 days under the one-time exit arrangements.

Authorities are also preparing further measures after their departure. Sources said the names of the deported individuals will be placed on Pakistan’s blacklist and Foreigners Control List.

The individuals will also be barred from obtaining Pakistani visas in the future, according to the sources.

The FIA has said its investigation will continue to determine the full structure of the alleged fraud network. Investigators are expected to examine the role of foreign suspects, local facilitators, handlers and any other individuals who may have helped the operation.