Karachi: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has removed a deputy director from his position and suspended multiple officials following the alleged assault of a trader during a raid in Karachi’s Sarafa Bazaar area.
The incident, which took place in the busy Saddar Sarafa Market, sparked strong reactions from the trader community after a video showing violence against a shopkeeper during an FIA operation went viral on social media.
According to an FIA spokesperson, the Director of FIA Karachi Zone took immediate notice of the incident and ordered both legal and departmental action against the officers allegedly involved in misconduct and abuse of authority.
Officials said the FIA moved swiftly in response to concerns raised by the business community regarding the conduct of officers during the raid.
As part of the disciplinary action, Assistant Director Syed Ali Mardan Shah, who was serving as the in-charge of the FIA Anti-Corruption Circle Karachi, was removed from his post and transferred to FIA headquarters.
In addition, Assistant Director Rubab Qazi was transferred from the FIA Anti-Corruption Circle (ACC) to the FIA Anti-Human Trafficking Circle (AHTC).
The FIA spokesperson further stated that SHO Anti-Corruption Circle Muhammad Iqbal had already been suspended before the latest decisions were announced.
Authorities also confirmed that a criminal case has been registered against a private individual allegedly involved in slapping a citizen during the incident captured on video.
The FIA said a departmental inquiry has been launched against all officers and personnel present at the scene to ensure a transparent, impartial, and comprehensive investigation into the matter.
According to officials, the inquiry will examine whether officers exceeded their authority, violated operational procedures, or engaged in misconduct during the raid.
The incident gained widespread attention after footage circulated online showing a trader allegedly being assaulted during the FIA operation. The video triggered criticism from traders, civil society members, and social media users, many of whom demanded accountability and action against those responsible.
Business representatives in Karachi expressed concern over what they described as the misuse of power during enforcement operations in commercial areas. Trader associations called for strict action against officials involved in the incident and urged authorities to ensure that law enforcement agencies treat citizens respectfully during raids and investigations.
Following the public backlash, FIA officials emphasized that the institution does not tolerate abuse of authority or misconduct by its personnel. The spokesperson said disciplinary measures were initiated promptly to maintain institutional credibility and public trust.
The FIA also reiterated its commitment to conducting operations within the framework of law and ensuring that citizens’ rights are protected during official procedures.
Legal experts say the case highlights the increasing role of social media in holding public officials accountable, as viral videos often lead to immediate public scrutiny and administrative action.
Observers noted that the rapid response by FIA leadership reflects growing pressure on government institutions to address allegations of misconduct transparently and efficiently.
Meanwhile, the trader community in Karachi welcomed the removal and suspension of the officials involved but stressed that the final outcome of the inquiry would determine whether justice is fully served.
The Sarafa Bazaar area in Saddar is one of Karachi’s major commercial centers, known for gold, jewelry, and currency-related businesses. Operations conducted by law enforcement agencies in such crowded commercial zones often attract significant public attention.
Authorities have assured that the ongoing inquiry will be conducted fairly and that further action will be taken if additional officers are found responsible.
