Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has ordered a large-scale, uncompromising crackdown against mafias involved in money laundering, human smuggling, and the manufacture and sale of counterfeit medicines, reaffirming the government’s zero-tolerance policy toward organized crime that threatens Pakistan’s economy and public safety.
During a visit to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Karachi Zone, the interior minister reviewed the overall performance of the Karachi and South Zones and chaired a high-level meeting with senior FIA officials. The visit focused on assessing ongoing operations, identifying challenges, and setting clear directives for future enforcement actions.
Addressing the meeting, Mohsin Naqvi directed FIA officials to launch an aggressive and result-oriented campaign against major money launderers. He stressed that “big fish” involved in money laundering must be targeted without hesitation and that the complete money trail of those involved should be uncovered and exposed. Emphasizing the gravity of the issue, he said the illegal hawala-hundi business would not be tolerated under any circumstances and that visible, indiscriminate action must be taken against all offenders, regardless of their influence or connections.
The interior minister underlined that money laundering not only weakens the national economy but also fuels other criminal activities, including terrorism, drug trafficking, and corruption. He instructed the FIA to strengthen coordination with relevant institutions to ensure that investigations are thorough, legally sound, and lead to successful prosecutions.
Mohsin Naqvi also issued firm instructions for decisive action against human smuggling networks. He said agents involved in deceiving innocent people with false promises of overseas employment or migration opportunities deserve no leniency. “Those who exploit the desperation of ordinary citizens and put their lives at risk are committing a grave crime,” he remarked, adding that operations against human smuggling mafias must be conducted without political or external pressure.
Highlighting the human cost of illegal migration, the interior minister noted that many victims suffer financial ruin, detention abroad, or even loss of life due to the activities of smuggling gangs. He stressed that dismantling these networks is a moral and legal responsibility of the state.
In addition to financial and migration crimes, Mohsin Naqvi expressed serious concern over the business of counterfeit and substandard medicines. He said those involved in producing and selling fake drugs are playing with human lives for profit. Calling the practice “a heinous crime,” he ordered strict legal action against all elements involved, including manufacturers, distributors, and facilitators. He emphasized that protecting public health is a top priority and that no compromise would be made in this regard.
The interior minister assured FIA officials that the federal government would fully support the agency in fulfilling its mandate. He acknowledged that the FIA Karachi Zone faces a shortage of human resources and said this issue would be addressed on a priority basis. “We will provide all necessary resources,” he said, adding that improved performance would enhance the credibility and reputation of the institution.
During the meeting, the Director FIA Karachi Zone briefed the interior minister on recent achievements and ongoing efforts. According to the briefing, over the past four months, the FIA has arrested 20 agents involved in human smuggling. In addition, non-custom paid goods and drugs worth approximately Rs140 million were seized during various operations.
The director further informed the minister that, to facilitate passengers and improve public service delivery, a dedicated facilitation center has been established at Karachi Airport. The center aims to provide guidance, address complaints, and streamline procedures for travelers, reflecting FIA’s efforts to balance strict enforcement with citizen-friendly services.
Mohsin Naqvi appreciated the progress made by the FIA but stressed that sustained effort and consistent results are essential. He urged officers to act professionally, transparently, and fearlessly, ensuring that criminal networks are dismantled and public trust in law enforcement is strengthened.
The visit and directives signal a renewed push by the government to confront entrenched criminal mafias head-on, with a focus on financial integrity, human safety, and the rule of law. As operations intensify, authorities hope that decisive action will deter organized crime and contribute to greater economic stability and public confidence across the country.
