Editor Report
Islamabad:The Pakistani rupee extended its gains for the third consecutive day on Friday as the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) intensified a nationwide crackdown on illegal currency exchange operations and hawala-hundi networks, arresting hundreds of suspects and recovering millions in illicit assets.According to FIA officials, the operation is being carried out based on credible intelligence received from reliable sources, leading to major action against unlicensed foreign exchange businesses and underground money transfer networks.So far, 282 suspects have been arrested in 256 raids. In addition, 213 criminal cases have been registered, and authorities have recovered a total of Rs762.27 million from the suspects. Numerous shops involved in illicit transactions have also been sealed.Law-enforcement agencies (LEAs) have been providing full support in tracking and apprehending the accused. FIA Director General Raja Riffat Mukhtar stated that all available resources are being utilised to arrest hawala and hundi operators.He emphasised that those engaged in smuggling foreign currency will face severe consequences, backed by solid evidence gathered during the crackdown. He also warned that the FIA is closing in on international agents linked to these criminal networks.Raja reiterated the agency’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against illegal currency exchange and informal money transfer systems. He assured the public that action will continue until the networks involved in these unlawful activities are eliminated.
