Over 370 Foreign Nationals Arrested in Islamabad Raids
Authorities register cases against 372 foreign nationals following separate FIA and NCCIA raids at Sparco Plaza in Gulberg Greens.
ISLAMABAD: More than 370 foreign nationals have been arrested during separate raids at Sparco Plaza in Gulberg Greens, Islamabad, by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA).
FIA Arrests 258 Foreign Nationals
The FIA’s Anti-Human Trafficking Cell arrested 258 foreign nationals, including citizens of China, Vietnam and Indonesia, after allegedly finding them involved in call centre and other commercial activities that were contrary to the conditions of their visit, tourist or business visas.
According to officials, the FIA verified the foreigners’ records through the Integrated Border Management System (IBMS) and registered cases against all 258 individuals under Section 14 of the Foreigners Act.
NCCIA Conducts Separate Raid
Following the FIA operation, the NCCIA also conducted a raid at an alleged call centre and illegal digital centre in the same plaza. 114 foreign nationals, including 111 Chinese and three Vietnamese citizens, were arrested over alleged involvement in online activities for financial gain.
Cases were registered under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and other relevant laws.
Combined Arrests Reach 372
Officials said the combined operations resulted in the arrest of 372 foreign nationals.
Due to the large number of detainees, Sparco Plaza was reportedly declared a sub-jail to facilitate their custody.
Further Investigation Underway
The FIA said its investigation would also determine the role of other individuals allegedly involved in the activities.
The case involving the 258 foreigners has been assigned to Inspector Mohammad Abdullah Kiyani for further investigation.
