Islamabad, Pakistan – Web Desk: The federal government of Pakistan has launched a major nationwide crackdown on money laundering and illegal hawala-hundi networks, officials confirmed on Wednesday.
The decision was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, with participation from senior officials including the FIA Director General, SBP Governor, and Finance Secretary.
Authorities announced that strict action will be taken against prominent business figures and institutions involved in illegal fund transfers abroad, with no leniency for violators. All overseas remittances are to be routed strictly through formal banking channels and approved legal systems, while loopholes in exchange companies will be closed to ensure transparency.
A joint working group of the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has been formed to monitor progress and oversee enforcement efforts against illicit financial flows.
FIA foils human smuggling attempt in Karachi
In a related operation, the FIA foiled a human smuggling attempt in Karachi, detaining 33 women from various districts of Punjab who were allegedly being trafficked abroad. Authorities arrested the traffickers near Saddar’s passport office, recovered 29 passports and related documents, and registered three separate cases against the suspects.
Officials emphasized that the crackdown on hawala-hundi networks and human trafficking reflects Pakistan’s commitment to financial transparency, law enforcement, and protecting citizens from exploitation.
