ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has decided to deport 284 foreign nationals allegedly involved in online fraud, according to reports citing sources within the Interior Ministry.
Media reports suggest the Ministry of Interior has cancelled the visas of the detained foreigners and issued them one-time exit permits valid for 15 days, allowing them to leave Pakistan within the specified period.
Allegations: Online Scams and Extortion
Officials say the accused were defrauding citizens and extorting money by claiming investment opportunities through various applications. Authorities also report that local facilitators and handlers connected to the scam have been traced.
Following deportation, the individuals’ names are expected to be placed on Pakistan’s stoplist and added to the Foreigners Control List. Sources also indicate they may be barred from obtaining Pakistani visas in the future.
Operation in Islamabad
It may be recalled here that the arrests were reported to have taken place during an operation at Sparco Plaza in Gulberg Greens, Islamabad.
Most of those detained are reported to be citizens of Vietnam, Indonesia, and China, and many allegedly entered Pakistan on tourist or visit visas.
Authorities say investigations are continuing to determine the broader fraud network and whether any assistance was provided by individuals with official connections, with more evidence being collected as the probe proceeds.
