Fake Passport
ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has taken a significant step in cracking down on a fake passport issuance operation, with the arrest of 15 suspects, including seven officers associated with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) and Passport Immigration. The arrests are part of an investigation into the issuance of fake Pakistani passports to Afghan nationals, citing FIA sources.
Among the apprehended individuals are three Assistant Directors from Passport Immigration and four officers from NADRA, highlighting the involvement of personnel in these crucial government agencies. Additionally, four agents and five Afghan nationals were also arrested during the operation.
The FIA’s action stems from complaints filed by both NADRA and the Passport Office, shedding light on a widespread network involved in the production of forged Pakistani passports on an international scale. The arrested individuals, totaling 16, form part of this illicit operation.
Efforts are underway to apprehend additional suspects involved in the fraudulent passport issuance scheme. This development underscores the urgency and determination of law enforcement agencies to curb such illegal activities that compromise national security and the integrity of official documentation.
This operation follows a previous incident on January 8, where two officials from the Passport Office Islamabad, including a woman, were arrested by the FIA. The arrests occurred after the revocation of pre-arrest bail for the accused by the Special Judge Central.
The individuals arrested, who were serving in the printing section of Passport Office Islamabad, had been on bail before their arrest. The FIA continues its efforts, conducting raids to apprehend other individuals named in the case registered in 2021.
These actions represent a concerted effort by law enforcement to dismantle networks involved in passport fraud and uphold the credibility of official documents, reflecting the commitment to maintaining the integrity of national security measures.
