FIA investigates alleged Rs172 billion call centre fraud in Islamabad

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has launched a new investigation into an alleged Rs172 billion digital fraud and money-laundering scandal involving call centres in Islamabad. A nine-member Joint Investigation Team (JIT) has been formed to examine the suspected fraud network, the movement of funds through various bank and microfinance accounts, and the methods used to transfer money abroad.

The case has resurfaced after nearly two years, with investigators looking into whether senior government officials may have links to the suspected network or facilitated the movement of funds. Authorities previously identified the network in 2025 during inquiries into illegal activities in the federal capital.

This probe follows a broader crackdown on illegal call centres in the region. Recently, the FIA detained 50 foreign nationals found hiding in a plaza within a private housing society. This follows previous operations where approximately 250 foreign nationals were detained and moved to Adiala and Attock jails. Deportation procedures have been initiated, with a group of 50 Vietnamese citizens already returned to Vietnam.