KARACHI: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi directed the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to launch a full-scale crackdown on hawala-hundi networks, non-custom paid goods, and human trafficking mafias operating across the country.
During a visit to the FIA Karachi Zone on Tuesday, Mr Naqvi presided over a high-level meeting where he instructed officials to arrest “big players” involved in the illegal transfer of money and to carry out operations against such elements “without yielding to any pressure.”
The interior minister said the illegal hundi-hawala system was not only hurting the country’s economy but also facilitating illicit activities. “No leniency will be tolerated in this matter,” he warned.
The minister also took strong exception to human trafficking rackets, especially those involved in sending beggars abroad under the guise of employment opportunities. He termed such networks a stain on the country’s image and called for immediate action.
“The agents responsible for trafficking beggars must be arrested, and those who have fled to other provinces should be apprehended with inter-provincial cooperation,” he instructed. He also called for the arrest of deported beggars upon their return.
Mr Naqvi further ordered a clampdown on the sale and distribution of counterfeit medicines, describing it as a “heinous crime that directly endangers human lives.” He said those involved in the trade “belong in jail” and directed the FIA to pursue such cases aggressively.
The minister also highlighted concerns over the unchecked flow of non-custom paid goods and instructed authorities to curb their movement effectively. Additionally, he ordered strict legal action against passengers attempting to carry more than $5,000 abroad without proper clearance.
FIA Karachi Zone Director Noman Siddique briefed the interior minister on the agency’s recent operations, challenges faced by the Karachi chapter, and ongoing investigations related to financial crimes and smuggling.
Mr Naqvi assured the agency of full support from the federal government in addressing operational hurdles and emphasised the need for improved coordination between agencies to dismantle organised criminal networks.
