Quetta
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Balochistan Zone, conducted a timely and effective operation against a suspected organized begging network at Quetta International Airport, apprehending the accused individuals. A detailed press conference in this regard was also held at the FIA Zonal Office, Quetta.
According to details, on February 24, 2026, three passengers—Ghulam Shabbir, Abdul Rehman, and Gul Muhammad—presented themselves for immigration clearance at Quetta International Airport for travel to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah via a private airline flight. During scrutiny, it was observed that two of the passengers were physically disabled and using wheelchairs, while the third individual was accompanying them.
During the initial examination, the conduct and circumstances of the passengers raised suspicion, indicating a possible attempt to send them abroad for the purpose of organized begging. Subsequent inquiry revealed the involvement of a facilitator, Adam Khan, who had assisted the passengers in reaching the airport.
Acting swiftly, the FIA team apprehended the facilitator from the airport parking area. During preliminary interrogation, the accused claimed to be a rickshaw driver who had transported the passengers to the airport. A sum of PKR 60,000 was recovered from his possession, which was reportedly transferred to him by the passengers through Easypaisa.
In view of the available evidence and suspicious circumstances, all three passengers, along with the facilitator, were taken into custody for further investigation and subsequently handed over to the FIA Anti-Human Trafficking Circle (AHTC), Quetta, for legal proceedings.
Addressing the press conference at the FIA Zonal Office, Quetta, Deputy Director Anti-Human Trafficking, FIA Balochistan Zone, Mr. Bahawal Usto, stated that FIA is pursuing a zero-tolerance policy against organized begging mafias, human smuggling, and illegal immigration.
He emphasized that such activities not only tarnish the country’s international reputation but also exploit vulnerable segments of society.
He further stated that preliminary investigations suggest the involvement of a network of agents operating in Punjab. FIA is utilizing all available resources to dismantle such networks, and strict legal action will be taken against all those involved. He also urged the public to report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities in a timely manner.
On the occasion, Deputy Director Immigration, Quetta Airport, Mr. Babar Shahryar, reaffirmed FIA’s commitment to eradicating human smuggling, illegal immigration, and organized crime. He stated that initial findings indicate misuse of Umrah visas for begging abroad, which not only damages Pakistan’s international image but also undermines the credibility of the national passport.
According to FIA, such activities fall within the ambit of human trafficking laws, and strict legal action is being initiated against the accused. Mr. Bahawal Usto further stated that cases have been registered under relevant laws, investigations are ongoing, and efforts are underway to apprehend other individuals linked to this network.
