Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Sindh Director Muhammad Noman Siddiqui, during a meeting at the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), vowed to take strict action against illegal emigration and begging, and to foster stronger ties with Karachi’s business community. Siddiqui highlighted the FIA’s commitment to curbing the “donkey route”-illegal emigration under the guise of begging-and safeguarding Pakistan’s international reputation.
The FIA’s newly established Risk Analysis Wing has begun monitoring travel patterns to identify potential offenders, focusing on individuals, airlines, countries, and even specific age groups. First-time travelers to certain countries, including Senegal, Tanzania, Libya, and Mozambique, will now be scrutinized unless they provide satisfactory explanations. Legitimate business travelers, particularly KCCI members with proper documentation, will not be affected.
To assist law-abiding traders, especially first-time travelers, Siddiqui proposed creating a WhatsApp group for direct communication between the FIA and KCCI. This platform will facilitate the prompt verification of individuals, such as traders’ children, whose verification can be guaranteed by the chamber through travel documents. Designated focal persons from both institutions will expedite the verification process, minimizing hurdles for law-abiding traders.
Addressing the growing issue of beggars, Siddiqui revealed that the FIA deported 176 individuals in mid-2024 and over 50 this year. The Risk Analysis Wing has significantly reduced this problem through targeted intervention. The director urged the KCCI to report call-up notices from FIA offices outside Karachi directly to him for prompt resolution.
Regarding financial malpractices, Siddiqui confirmed that the FIA is meticulously investigating check fraud complaints to ensure fair treatment of genuine businesses. He reiterated the ongoing crackdown on Hawala/Hundi operations, citing numerous arrests last year, including bank officials and a senior vice president, whose cases were reported to the State Bank of Pakistan, which now has a designated focal person with the FIA.
To address potential misuse of FIA’s authority, Siddiqui proposed a monitoring system, possibly through the proposed WhatsApp group, to verify call-up notices. He expressed his commitment to taking action against former FIA employees allegedly targeting traders using the agency’s name. He emphasized that such actions, which damage the FIA’s reputation, will not be tolerated. Cybercrime issues, now under the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), should be directed to NCCIA Director Amir Nawaz.
BMG Chairman Zubair Motiwala, joining via video link, expressed concern over the FIA’s stringent approach in financial matters, advocating for the legal rights of accused individuals and access for their families. He suggested a collaborative approach to locate and support those in custody, where KCCI verifies genuine traders and FIA acknowledges the chamber’s recommendations.
BMG Vice Chairman Anjum Nisar stressed the importance of effective communication between the FIA and the business sector. He suggested that KCCI verification can distinguish legitimate traders from suspicious individuals, reducing harassment.
KCCI President Muhammad Tariq Yousuf appreciated Siddiqui’s proactive approach and expressed confidence in his business-friendly leadership. He proposed restoring a dedicated immigration desk for traders and advised the FIA to consult with KCCI before issuing notices, utilizing the chamber’s focal person.
KCCI Senior Vice President Zia ul Arfeen emphasized the need for a system enabling traders to respond to FIA notices locally, rather than being summoned to distant cities. He demanded stern action against illegal emigration, citing its negative impact on Pakistan’s international image.