FIA busts fake currency smuggling attempt, Rs4 million seized in Islamabad

Officials say suspect hid 800 counterfeit Rs5000 notes in his clothes

The Federal Investigation Agency Commercial Banking Circle in Islamabad has successfully thwarted an attempt to smuggle fake Pakistani currency. The operation led to the arrest of a bus driver, Ravez Khan, from Nowshera, and the seizure of counterfeit notes worth over Rs4 million.

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) acted on a tip-off, launching a raid at the M-1 Toll Plaza near Attock in Punjab. During the operation, officials found 800 fake Rs5000 notes, amounting to a total of Rs4 million, hidden within his clothing.

Ravez, a passenger bus driver, was en route from Peshawar to Multan at the time of his arrest. Investigations suggest he was involved in a larger smuggling network responsible for distributing fake currency across the country. The suspect had previously received counterfeit notes from a rickshaw driver in Peshawar, which he was then delivering to an accomplice in Multan.

Organised network involved

The FIA has expanded its investigation into the wider network behind the counterfeit currency operation. According to sources, the gang has been involved in smuggling fake bills for several months, with Ravez serving as a courier. For every Rs100,000 worth of fake currency he transported, Ravez would receive a commission of Rs2000.

FIA officials revealed that the gang operates across multiple cities, and Ravez’s arrest is expected to lead to further apprehensions. Authorities have already begun conducting raids to arrest other members of the network.

The FIA commercial banking circle in Islamabad has vowed to continue its efforts to dismantle the counterfeit currency operations and bring those responsible to justice. A spokesman confirmed that all available resources are being utilised to capture other individuals involved in the illegal trade.