ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has uncovered a major financial fraud involving the case of student Laiba Ijaz, with preliminary findings indicating that suspects allegedly extorted Rs 9.3 million from her family through fraudulent promises of a United States visa and an overseas academic scholarship.
According to an FIA spokesperson, the case was formally registered following a complaint lodged by the victim’s maternal uncle. The FIR includes Sections 419, 420 and 109 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), along with Sections 18 and 22 of the Emigration Ordinance, 1979.
FIA Uncovers Major Financial Fraud Through Fake Visa and Scholarship Documents
Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspects allegedly deceived Laiba Ijaz and her family by claiming they could arrange a US visa and secure a foreign academic scholarship. Investigators found that the alleged scheme involved fabricated university admission letters, counterfeit scholarship award documents and fake fee payment receipts.
These documents were reportedly used to maintain the family’s confidence in the promises and obtain money under false pretences.
The FIA spokesperson stated that, of the Rs 9.3 million allegedly obtained, approximately Rs 2.9 million was transferred through banking channels into accounts provided by the suspects, while the remaining amount was reportedly paid in cash.
The case has drawn attention to the risks associated with fraudulent overseas education and visa arrangements, particularly schemes that exploit students’ academic ambitions and families’ hopes for opportunities abroad.
FIA Launches Raids to Arrest Suspects
Under the supervision of the Director of the FIA Islamabad Zone, special teams have reportedly conducted raids at multiple locations to apprehend the suspects, some of whom are believed to be at large.
The agency has stated that efforts are underway to bring all those allegedly involved in the fraud to justice. Further investigation is expected to establish the full extent of the scheme, identify the individuals involved and trace the financial transactions.
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The case also highlights the importance of verifying overseas admission offers, scholarship documents and visa arrangements through official institutional and government channels before making payments.
The allegations remain subject to investigation, and the responsibility of each suspect will be determined through the legal process.
