Growing concerns emerged recently after several travelers were reportedly offloaded at major Pakistani airports. Many people questioned the sudden rise in offloading incidents, especially when passengers held valid travel visas. However, the Federal Investigation Agency has now provided a detailed explanation to clear the confusion.
Misleading Online Content Raised Public Anxiety
According to FIA officials, misleading AI-generated videos, images, and fabricated claims circulating online created unnecessary panic. These deceptive posts suggested that people were being stopped without cause. However, the agency emphasized that such content was designed to confuse the public and damage its credibility. Officials urged citizens to rely on verified information instead.
Offloading Happens Only When Documents Are Incomplete
The FIA stated that passengers are stopped only when they lack valid travel documents. Moreover, travelers are also offloaded if their profiles indicate links to migrant smuggling networks. This approach aims to prevent illegal migration attempts, which have caused numerous tragedies involving unsafe boat journeys.
Risk Analysis Unit Plays a Key Role
To strengthen preventive measures, the FIA introduced a dedicated Risk Analysis Unit. This unit uses trusted international software to identify travel patterns associated with illegal immigration. As a result, passengers flagged as high-risk are screened more closely. If concerns arise, they may be denied boarding to protect them from potential exploitation.
Certain Travel Destinations Receive Extra Scrutiny
Officials explained that only travelers heading to specific regions are screened more frequently. These include several African nations, some Central Asian states, and selected Gulf countries. The agency mainly reviews first-time travelers or individuals visiting countries with high rates of illegal immigration routes.
Offloading Percentage Remains Very Small
Despite public concerns, the FIA confirmed that only a tiny fraction of passengers are actually offloaded. Out of approximately 90 million people traveling in and out of Pakistan yearly, only about 1% face offloading. For instance, if 100,000 people travel abroad in a month, only 200 to 300 may be stopped after risk assessment.
Reduced Boat-Related Tragedies After New Measures
The FIA noted that the introduction of the Risk Analysis Unit helped reduce fatal migrant boat incidents. Since the system identifies high-risk travelers early, the agency can intervene before they fall victim to unsafe routes and smuggling networks.
Complaint Channels Available for Affected Passengers
The agency also addressed concerns about potential misconduct. Any traveler who encounters unfair treatment can file complaints through official platforms. These include the FIA’s website, dedicated email channels, and the national complaint portal. The agency encouraged passengers to use these systems rather than post unverified claims online.
New Digital App Coming Soon for Document Verification
To improve the travel process further, the FIA plans to launch a new immigration app. This digital platform will allow travelers to upload and verify documents before reaching the airport. The initiative aims to reduce confusion and prevent last-minute offloading due to missing paperwork.
