A passenger was stopped from boarding an international flight at Islamabad International Airport after immigration officials allegedly detected a forged French Schengen visa in his passport.
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Immigration intercepted the traveller during departure procedures. He was scheduled to fly to Spain on Qatar Airways flight QR-615.
Suspicious Visa Detected During Immigration Screening
According to immigration authorities, the passenger was selected for secondary profiling after officials noticed irregularities in the French Schengen visa sticker attached to his passport.
Further scrutiny raised concerns about the authenticity of the visa. As a result, immigration officials prevented the passenger from continuing his journey.
Passenger Reveals How Visa Was Obtained
During the initial investigation, the passenger allegedly told investigators that he received the visa sticker through a friend named Shamoun in Saudi Arabia.
He further claimed that he had already paid an advance of 550 Saudi riyals. In addition, he was expected to pay another 45,000 Saudi riyals after reaching his destination.
Authorities are examining these claims as part of the ongoing investigation.
WhatsApp Chats Found During Investigation
Investigators also examined the passenger’s mobile phone during the inquiry.
According to the FIA, officials found WhatsApp conversations with a man identified as Ghulam Shabbir. The chats allegedly discussed obtaining clearance for a European visa.
The digital evidence has become part of the investigation. Officials are reviewing the communications to determine whether additional individuals were involved.
Passenger Handed Over for Legal Action
After completing the initial immigration process, officials offloaded the passenger from the scheduled flight.
He was later handed over to the FIA’s Anti-Human Trafficking Circle in Islamabad.
The agency will now proceed with legal action in accordance with the findings of its investigation. Authorities are also expected to examine the alleged visa procurement network and verify the information provided during questioning.
The investigation remains ongoing. Officials have not announced any further arrests or additional developments at this stage.
