Pakistan to Deport 284 Foreign Nationals After FIA Crackdown on Online Fraud

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has decided to deport 284 foreign nationals allegedly involved in online fraud and other illegal activities in Pakistan.

The action was taken on the special directions of FIA Director General Usman Anwar. Special teams were formed to investigate the cases. They will complete legal procedures and prepare the necessary documents for the deportation of the suspects.

According to FIA officials, many of the arrested foreigners allegedly used fake identities on mobile applications and online platforms to target Pakistani citizens. They reportedly posed as women, built relationships with victims, and later offered them investment opportunities promising high returns.

Pakistan to Deport 284 Foreign Nationals After FIA Crackdown on Online Fraud

After gaining the trust of their targets, the suspects allegedly convinced them to invest money in different business and investment schemes. The victims were then defrauded of their funds.

FIA officials said the investigation has revealed that the suspects were allegedly operating as part of organized groups. Authorities have also identified several local facilitators and handlers who may have helped the networks operate in Pakistan.

The FIA is also investigating whether individuals linked to government departments provided assistance or protection to the suspects. Officials stressed that the involvement of any person or institution will only be confirmed after a complete investigation and the collection of sufficient evidence.

The 284 foreign nationals were reportedly arrested during a major FIA operation at Spark Plaza in Gulberg Greens, Islamabad. DG FIA Usman Anwar directly monitored the operation and directed the concerned teams to complete the legal process without delay.

Following the arrests, the FIA approached the Ministry of Interior to cancel the suspects’ visas and obtain one-time exit permits. According to an official letter issued by the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control on August 14, 2026, the individuals have been ordered to leave Pakistan within 15 days.

The official documents state that the current visas of all 284 foreigners have been cancelled. They will be allowed to leave Pakistan once their travel documents and other required legal procedures have been completed.

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The majority of those arrested are reportedly citizens of Vietnam, Indonesia and China, while some belong to other countries. Most of them had entered Pakistan on tourist or visit visas.

The Ministry of Interior has also directed the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports to place the individuals on the blacklist and Foreigners Control List after their departure. This move is intended to prevent them from obtaining Pakistani visas in the future.

DG FIA Usman Anwar said investigations against foreign nationals involved in online financial crimes would continue. He also warned that local facilitators and handlers would face legal action if found involved.

The FIA has said that anyone found assisting the alleged criminal networks will be dealt with according to the law, regardless of their position or status. Further details about the victims, financial losses and the wider network are expected to emerge as the investigation continues.