FIA uncovers immigration corruption network in Islamabad

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has uncovered a major corruption network facilitating illegal immigration clearance and the movement of foreign nationals at New Islamabad Airport. The investigation follows information provided by a Chinese national, Xiao Jung Ping, who is among those named in a First Information Report (FIR).

Authorities arrested Junaid Mughal, an official from the Immigration and Passport Office, and Zafar Iqbal, a constable from the Islamabad Police Special Protection Unit. Allegations suggest the network charged foreign passengers up to Rs 80,000 per person for expedited or illegal clearance. During a raid on Mughal’s residence in Ghouri Town, investigators recovered Rs 20 million in cash hidden in a suitcase within a vehicle.

Digital evidence, including WhatsApp messages and payment receipts, was seized from mobile devices. The FIA stated that the investigation is ongoing and may implicate additional officials from the Special Protection Unit, immigration services, and the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency, as well as various private individuals.