FIA Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Forex Networks

The Ministry of Interior has informed the National Assembly that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has directed its regional offices to intensify enforcement against unlawful foreign currency dealers and hawala-hundi networks as part of broader efforts to stabilise the foreign exchange regime.

Responding to a written query, the ministry clarified that although anti-smuggling operations primarily fall within the jurisdiction of Pakistan Customs, FIA officials stationed at immigration points have also been instructed to exercise heightened scrutiny to detect and prevent illicit currency movements.

According to enforcement statistics shared for actions undertaken since January 2025, authorities conducted 551 raids, registered 576 cases, arrested 703 individuals, and secured 324 convictions, reflecting a significant compliance drive against illegal foreign exchange transactions.

The data formed part of the Interior Ministry’s formal submission to the assembly, outlining regulatory and enforcement measures aimed at curbing undocumented currency trade and associated financial violations. The report underscored coordinated efforts between the FIA and other enforcement bodies to monitor, investigate, and dismantle unlawful forex operations nationwide.

In response to a separate inquiry concerning encroachments along Islamabad Club Road and Murree Road, the ministry reported that 10 hotels and motels had established unauthorized parking facilities on designated green belts. These structures were removed on August 6, 2024, and legal proceedings were initiated before the Senior Special Magistrate of the Capital Development Authority.

Additionally, addressing a question regarding developments in Pakistan’s space sector, the Defence Minister confirmed that the country’s first Hyper-Spectral Satellite (HS-I), launched on October 19, 2025, is currently undergoing in-orbit evaluation. Satellite imagery is expected to be accessible by the end of January 2026 under a national utilisation framework covering agriculture, environmental monitoring, disaster response, mineral assessment, and strategic planning.