ISLAMABAD: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has ordered a comprehensive and indiscriminate crackdown against the money-laundering mafia, directing law-enforcement agencies to take firm action against major operators involved in illegal financial activities across the country.
The directive was issued during the Interior Minister’s visit to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Karachi Zone, where he chaired a high-level meeting to review the performance of the FIA Karachi and South Zones.
Zero Tolerance for Money Laundering and Hawala–Hundi
Chairing the meeting, Naqvi instructed the FIA to expose the complete money trail of individuals and networks involved in money laundering. He made it clear that the hawala–hundi business would not be tolerated under any circumstances, stressing that visible and across-the-board action must be ensured without discrimination.
“The state will deal with money launderers with an iron hand,” the minister said, emphasizing that financial crimes undermine the national economy and security.
Strict Action Against Human Smuggling Agents
The Interior Minister also ordered effective and pressure-free action against agent mafias involved in human smuggling. He said agents who deceive innocent citizens with false promises of overseas employment deserve no leniency.
“Those exploiting people’s hopes for a better future abroad must be held accountable,” Naqvi added, directing the FIA to accelerate investigations and prosecutions in such cases.
Counterfeit Medicines Trade to Face Full Force of Law
Mohsin Naqvi further highlighted the dangers posed by the counterfeit medicines trade, calling it a crime that plays with human lives. He instructed law-enforcement authorities to ensure that all elements involved in the manufacturing and distribution of fake medicines are brought to justice without delay.
Resources for FIA, Performance Mandatory
Addressing operational challenges, the Interior Minister said the shortage of human resources in the FIA Karachi Zone would be addressed on a priority basis. He assured officers of full institutional support and provision of necessary resources but stressed that improved performance and integrity were non-negotiable.
“Officers must enhance the FIA’s reputation through results,” he said.
Arrests, Seizures, and Passenger Facilitation
During the briefing, officials informed the minister that 20 agents involved in human smuggling had been arrested over the past four months. Additionally, non-custom-paid goods and drugs worth Rs. 140 million were seized during enforcement operations.
It was also shared that a Facilitation Center at Karachi Airport has been established to provide assistance and convenience to passengers.
Performance Reports Sought
Naqvi sought detailed performance reports from in-charge officers of all circles, directing them to work with greater diligence and accountability to achieve tangible results.
The meeting was briefed by the Director FIA Karachi Zone and attended by Additional Director General FIA South Mujahid Akbar Khan, along with Deputy Directors from Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Corruption, Anti-Smuggling, Immigration, Crimes, Commercial Banking, and other concerned officials.
