FIA busts human trafficking racket

Nabs two suspected smugglers, launches probe


Our Correspondent July 14, 2024
FIA

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RAWALPINDI:

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Rawalpindi's anti-human trafficking cell has successfully tracked down a group of human traffickers who defrauded over 350 people promising to secure them work abroad.

According to a spokesperson, two accused individuals have been arrested, with an employee of the Greece Embassy also implicated in the scandal. Authorities are conducting raids to apprehend the embassy employee involved.

Following orders from Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, the FIA anti-trafficking wing has been intensifying its crackdown on elements involved in human trafficking. Complaints had emerged about organised gangs defrauding millions of rupees from over 350 unsuspecting citizens through visa fraud.

In response, the FIA Anti-Human Trafficking Cell Rawalpindi team identified and tracked down the group responsible for swindling millions of rupees by falsely promising employment in Greece. This operation revealed the involvement of Tariq Rafiq, an official working at the Greek Embassy in Islamabad. After completing the inquiry, the FIA conducted raids in Islamabad and arrested two suspects, Ghulam Murtaza and Anjum Javed.

Officials disclosed that the accused defrauded more than Rs78 million from over 350 innocent citizens by providing fake visas in exchange for substantial sums of money.

These fake visas were purportedly for work opportunities in Greece. Following the scam, the culprits went into hiding.

The FIA has registered a case against the group. Among the accused is Tariq Rafiq, who allegedly supplied fake Greek visa stickers to his accomplices. Raids are ongoing to apprehend the embassy employee, and investigations have commenced with the arrested suspects.

This operation underscores the FIA's commitment to combating human trafficking and visa fraud, ensuring that those involved face justice.

 

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