FIA says suspects allegedly used fake identities and online relationships to defraud Pakistani citizens through fraudulent investment schemes.
Pakistan has moved to deport 284 foreign nationals following a major Federal Investigation Agency crackdown on alleged online fraud networks operating in the country. Authorities say the suspects were involved in schemes that allegedly used fake identities, online relationships and investment offers to target Pakistani citizens.
The operation was conducted on the special directions of FIA Director General Usman Anwar, with dedicated teams assigned to investigate the cases and complete the legal requirements for deportation.
According to FIA officials, several suspects allegedly created fake profiles on mobile applications and online platforms, often posing as women to establish relationships with potential victims. After gaining their trust, they allegedly encouraged the victims to invest money in business or investment schemes promising high returns.
Investigators believe some of the suspects were operating as part of organized groups. The FIA has also identified alleged local facilitators and handlers who may have assisted the networks in Pakistan.
Authorities are examining whether anyone linked to government departments provided assistance or protection to the suspects. Officials have stressed that such involvement will only be established if supported by evidence gathered during the investigation.
The foreigners were reportedly arrested during an FIA operation at Spark Plaza in Gulberg Greens, Islamabad. Following the arrests, the agency approached the Ministry of Interior to cancel their visas and secure one-time exit permits.
An official Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control letter dated Aug. 14, 2026, states that the visas of all 284 individuals have been cancelled and they have been directed to leave Pakistan within 15 days, subject to completion of travel and legal formalities.
Most of the suspects are reportedly citizens of Vietnam, Indonesia and China, along with nationals of other countries. Many had entered Pakistan on tourist or visit visas.
The Ministry has further directed the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports to place the individuals on the blacklist and Foreigners Control List after their departure, preventing them from obtaining Pakistani visas in the future.
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