The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA)’s Anti-Human Trafficking Circle in Karachi has arrested two suspects for attempting to obtain US visas using forged medical documents. The arrests were made following a complaint lodged by the United States Consulate in Karachi, according to an FIA spokesperson.
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The suspects, identified as Muhammad Tauseef Khan and Imran Nazir Silhari, were taken into custody outside the consulate premises. They are accused of trying to mislead US immigration authorities by submitting counterfeit medical records to justify visa applications on medical grounds.
Fake Documents for High Fees
Initial investigations revealed that both suspects were assisted by two agents—Aqeel and Tabassum Zia—who facilitated the preparation of fraudulent documents. The suspects had allegedly paid substantial amounts for the illicit service. Tauseef agreed to pay Rs1 million to agent Aqeel, while Imran Nazir negotiated a Rs2.5 million deal with Tabassum Zia.
The fake documents were submitted to the US Consulate with the intention of gaining entry into the United States under the pretense of medical treatment. FIA officials said that the suspects were fully aware of the fraudulent nature of the documents and that their actions constituted a serious offense under Pakistani and international immigration laws.
Consulate’s Complaint Triggers Arrests
The operation was initiated after the US Consulate identified irregularities in the medical documentation submitted by the suspects and reported the matter to the FIA. Acting on the information, FIA officials apprehended both men outside the consulate in Karachi. The arrests were made by the Anti-Human Trafficking Circle, a specialized unit of the FIA that deals with immigration-related offenses.
“The suspects attempted to mislead the US Consulate through fabricated documentation,” said an FIA spokesperson. The agency emphasized that the integrity of international visa processes must be protected from such fraudulent practices.
Wider Investigation Underway
Following the interrogation of the suspects, the FIA has launched a broader investigation to locate and apprehend the agents involved. Authorities have confirmed that both Aqeel and Tabassum Zia are being actively pursued. Based on intelligence obtained during questioning, more arrests and legal actions are expected.
The case highlights the growing issue of visa fraud in Pakistan, where unscrupulous agents exploit desperate individuals by offering forged documentation in exchange for exorbitant fees. The FIA has vowed to dismantle such networks and is encouraging citizens to report any suspicious visa processing offers.
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The arrests come amid concerns surrounding US visa policy in Pakistan. In March, reports emerged suggesting that the US was considering placing Pakistan on a list for the partial suspension of visa issuance. However, the US State Department later dismissed these reports, denying that any such list was being prepared. While the diplomatic implications of this case remain to be seen, the incident is likely to prompt tighter scrutiny of Pakistani visa applications and may impact future consular processes.