Beware of illegal visa network as FIA takes action against govt officers
The suspects are accused of helping foreign nationals bypass immigration restrictions and continue illegal activities.
The FIA Anti-Corruption Unit reportedly arrested Chinese national Xiao Jingping, also known as Jack or Jason. IMPASS official Junaid Mughal and Islamabad Police SPU official Zafar Iqbal were also arrested in the case.
Rs20 million cash recovered
The FIA reportedly recovered Rs20 million in cash along with documents during the operation. A case was registered against the three suspects as investigators continued probing the alleged network.
The network allegedly helped foreign nationals obtain immigration clearance despite visa violations and other alleged illegal activities. Investigators said some of these activities were linked to call and digital centres operating in Islamabad.
Investigation reveals alleged payments
The case emerged during an FIA Anti-Human Trafficking Cell investigation into foreign nationals arrested in Islamabad. During questioning, some suspects allegedly provided information about an organised network involving officials from several departments.
According to the investigation, Xiao made further disclosures on August 15. He allegedly said Junaid Mughal and Zafar Iqbal, along with others, helped clear foreign passengers in exchange for Rs80,000 per person.
Digital evidence supports probe
Investigators reportedly recovered WhatsApp conversations and payment receipts from a suspect’s mobile phone. The material allegedly showed communication and financial transactions between people linked to the network.
Following the disclosures, FIA Islamabad Zone Director Shahzad Nadeem Bukhari formed a team to investigate the allegations. The team was led by Anti-Corruption Cell Assistant Director Umar Arsalan and Inspector Raja Faheem.
Raids uncover more evidence
The FIA team raided Junaid Mughal’s residence in Ghori Town, Islamabad, and arrested him. Officials reportedly recovered WhatsApp chats and other material from his phone during the initial investigation.
The recovered data allegedly showed communications and payments involving Xiao, Zafar and other people. Mughal also allegedly told investigators that Xiao had paid him to help release foreign nationals arrested from Sparco Plaza in Gulberg Greens.
Probe expands to other officials
Investigators are also examining allegations that officials of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency were paid monthly amounts. The alleged payments were reportedly made to protect foreign nationals accused of involvement in illegal activities.
The investigation is still underway as the FIA examines the evidence and alleged financial transactions. Further action against other people could follow if investigators establish their involvement in the alleged network.
The case highlights concerns about possible misuse of official positions to facilitate immigration clearance. The alleged use of digital messages and payment records could help investigators trace how the network operated.
The FIA’s wider investigation may reveal whether more officials or private individuals were involved. However, the allegations will need to be established through the legal process.
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