ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested 494 individuals involved in illegal currency exchange, hawala, and hundi operations all over Pakistan this year, recovering a total of Rs1.49 billion.
As part of its ongoing crackdown, the FIA conducted 384 raids and registered 396 cases against the illegal operators. The recovered foreign currencies include over 466,000 US dollars, other foreign currencies worth more than Rs203 million, and Rs1.13 billion in cash.
The FIA also sealed several shops involved in illegal currency exchanges during its nationwide operations, which were carried out in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies.
The agency emphasised its commitment to using all available resources to apprehend those involved in illegal currency trade and bring them to justice. It stated that the agency is focusing on foreign agents involved in the trade of illegal currency and following a zero-tolerance policy.
On September 7, the FIA had intensified its crackdown on illegal currency exchange networks and human smuggling groups, leading to multiple arrests and the recovery of millions in cash.
