The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has developed an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered application to streamline immigration procedures and curb human smuggling. A pilot project is to be launched at Islamabad International Airport.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi was briefed on the initiative during a meeting at the FIA Headquarters in Islamabad, where progress on the agency’s modernisation agenda was reviewed.
FIA Director General Raja Riffat Mukhtar said the AI-driven system will ease passenger flow by reducing queues while also enhancing the agency’s ability to detect trafficking attempts.
Calling the project “a need of the hour,” Naqvi said it would not only save travellers time but also strengthen Pakistan’s fight against human smugglers. He announced immediate release of funds for IT upgrades and sought urgent renovation of the FIA Headquarters.
The interior minister instructed the Capital Development Authority (CDA) to hand over land for the FIA Academy without delay. Recruitment against all approved vacant posts will also be initiated to address staff shortages.
“I will ensure provision of all necessary resources, but in return, you will have to deliver performance,” the minister told FIA officials.
Read: FIA arrests five agents for human trafficking and visa fraud
The FIA chief further informed the minister that amendments to the FIA Act had been completed, while the agency’s digital transition was progressing on priority. The organisation has already shifted to an e-office system with all official notices soon to be issued with QR codes to ensure transparency.
In recent years, the FIA has intensified its crackdown on human trafficking networks.
In October 2023, it also partnered with the European Union and the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) to establish a “second line” border control office at Islamabad Airport, equipped with advanced forensic and IT tools to detect forged documents and monitor smuggling trends.
The launch of the AI-based application marks another significant step in Pakistan’s efforts to modernise border management and strengthen institutional capacity against organised trafficking networks.
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