FIA arrested two women at Karachi Airport for using Umrah visas as a front for begging. Investigations revealed one suspect's son is illegally residing in Saudi Arabia. This crackdown is part of Pakistan's broader efforts to prevent human trafficking and the exploitation of religious visas for illegal activities.
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) immigration team carried out a major operation at Karachi Airport, arresting two women using Umrah package as a cover for begging. The suspects, identified as Patil Khatoon and Subhana, were detained for failing to provide necessary travel documents or funds.
Son of One Suspect Found Illegally Residing in Saudi Arabia
During the investigation, it was uncovered that Subhana’s son had overstayed his Umrah visa in Saudi Arabia since 2022 and was involved in begging activities there. The two women have been handed over to the Anti-Human Smuggling Circle in Karachi for further legal action.
FIA Director Emphasizes Pakistan's Commitment to Fighting Human Trafficking
FIA Director General Ahmad Ishaq Jahangir recently highlighted Pakistan’s dedication to combating organized crime, human trafficking, and migrant smuggling at the UN’s Conference of the Parties (COP) for the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC).
Previous Case of Begging Scam at Faisalabad Airport
Last month, FIA immigration foiled another begging-related scam, intercepting Munawar Hussain and Shafia Bibi at Faisalabad Airport. The couple, previously stopped in Lahore, had a history of traveling to Iraq, Iran, and Saudi Arabia for begging, lacking proper financial documentation.
Saudi Authorities Raise Concerns Over Pakistani Beggars
The increasing presence of Pakistani beggars in Saudi Arabia has alarmed authorities, as they disrupt genuine pilgrims’ experiences. In response, Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi assured Saudi officials that strict measures are being taken to prevent the misuse of Umrah visas.
Pakistan Cracks Down on Exploitation of Umrah Visas
This crackdown is part of a broader initiative by Pakistan to protect its international image and prevent the exploitation of religious visas for illegal activities like begging, ensuring the sanctity of pilgrimage remains intact.
