The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has uncovered an illegal maritime transportation and smuggling network in Karachi, arresting five suspects involved in moving people through unauthorized sea routes and smuggling contraband.
Arrests and Identifications
The arrested individuals were identified as Ali Muhammad alias Haji (owner of the launch), Abdul Salam (captain of the launch), Yousuf Palani, Imran, and Ali Akbar. They were taken into custody during a targeted operation by the FIA.
Modus Operandi
During preliminary investigations, the suspects revealed that people were illegally transported abroad via maritime routes using a launch named Al Irfan. Some individuals were later brought back to Pakistan illegally aboard another launch. Verification of immigration records found no evidence of the individuals having legally departed Pakistan.
The suspects further disclosed that they charged approximately Rs150,000 per person for facilitating illegal re-entry into the country. Some passengers reportedly remained hidden aboard the vessel for up to two months.
Additional Smuggling Activities
Initial investigations also suggest that the suspects were involved in smuggling liquor, cigarettes, diesel, silver, and other prohibited items through coastal routes in Balochistan. The FIA is continuing its investigation to uncover the full extent of the network.
