FIA Tightens Immigration Amidst Traveler Offloading Concerns in Karachi

A top FIA official has denied reports claiming thousands of Pakistani travelers with valid documents are being prevented from flying out of Karachi. Immigration checks have increased due to issues like fake visas and human smuggling, especially after the Greece boat incident that claimed many Pakistani lives.

A senior official from Pakistan's Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has dismissed allegations that thousands of legitimate Pakistani travelers are being barred from flying out of Karachi. Reports have surfaced suggesting first-time travelers, particularly from other provinces, face significant hurdles when attempting to depart from Karachi airport.

Heightened scrutiny at immigration desks follows incidents such as the tragic Greece boat disaster in December 2024, where hundreds lost their lives. This has prompted authorities to clamp down on travel conducted under fraudulent circumstances, including fake employment visas aimed at human trafficking.

Unverified stories have highlighted cases without clear documentation or official denial stamps, causing distress among passengers. The issue of 'offloading' persists at major airport checkpoints in cities like Lahore and Islamabad, often attributed to pressure from Gulf countries to curb unlawful migrations.

(With inputs from agencies.)