ISLAMABAD: Authorities have arrested 258 foreign nationals in the federal capital over alleged violations of visa regulations and involvement in unlawful activities.
According to sources, the arrested individuals include citizens of China, Malaysia, Indonesia and Vietnam. They had entered Pakistan on visit, tourist and business visas.
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) carried out the operation at a plaza in Gulberg Greens, Islamabad, where a large number of foreign nationals were reportedly present.
According to the FIA, call-center-like activities were being conducted at the premises, while the individuals were allegedly involved in business activities in violation of their visa conditions.
Officials said the arrested foreigners were presented before the court through an online hearing rather than being physically produced before the judicial magistrate.
Following the hearing, the magistrate sent the suspects to 14-day judicial remand.
Gulberg Greens Plaza Declared a Sub-Jail
Due to the large number of arrested foreign nationals, they were not transferred to Adiala Jail. Instead, they have been detained at a plaza in Gulberg Greens.
The Islamabad district administration, acting on a request from the FIA, issued a notification declaring the building a temporary sub-jail.
According to the administration, the FIA will be responsible for security and monitoring around the temporary detention facility.
Why Did the FIA Arrest the Foreign Nationals?
According to the FIR, the FIA’s Anti-Human Trafficking Circle received information that between 200 and 300 foreign nationals were allegedly staying in Islamabad and violating visa regulations by engaging in business activities and providing employment.
Following the information, an FIA team conducted a raid at the Gulberg Greens premises. When the team arrived, 258 foreign nationals were found at the location.
Officials said the visa and travel records of the arrested individuals were also checked during the investigation.
Initial Investigation Reveals More Allegations
During the initial investigation, some of the detainees were allegedly found to be involved in fraud-related activities and the development of various websites, according to FIA officials.
The agency said further evidence is expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.
Officials added that additional cases could be registered against individuals found to be involved in other criminal activities.
The FIA said its detention facilities did not have enough capacity to accommodate such a large number of detainees. Due to the lack of available space, the Gulberg Greens plaza was therefore converted into a temporary sub-jail.
