- Principal Absconding Suspect Arrested in High-Profile Case Following Sustained FIA Investigation
FAISALABAD: In a significant success reflecting the proactive leadership of Director FIA Faisalabad, Saqib Sultan, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested the principal absconding suspect in a high-profile drug trafficking case involving Pakistani Umrah pilgrims.
According to FIA officials, the accused, Gul Nawaz, was apprehended during a targeted operation in Peshawar after remaining at large for several months. His arrest marks a major milestone in the agency’s ongoing campaign against transnational organized crime and human exploitation.
Investigators revealed that Gul Nawaz allegedly led a criminal network alongside previously arrested suspects Saddam Hussain and Israr Khan. The group is accused of targeting financially struggling individuals by offering them free Umrah packages.
As part of the alleged scheme, the pilgrims were reportedly provided with luggage described as “gifts” and instructed to deliver the bags to designated individuals upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, without being aware of their contents. The case came to light in September 2024, when Saudi authorities arrested five Pakistani Umrah pilgrims, including women from Jaranwala, after allegedly recovering narcotics concealed in their luggage.
The pilgrims were subsequently tried and sentenced by Saudi courts, prompting the FIA to launch an extensive investigation into the criminal network responsible for orchestrating the operation.
Director Saqib Sultan’s Leadership Strengthens FIA Operations
The arrest of the principal suspect highlights the continued commitment of Director FIA Faisalabad Saqib Sultan to dismantling organized criminal syndicates involved in drug trafficking and the exploitation of innocent citizens.
Under his leadership, FIA Faisalabad has intensified intelligence-based operations, strengthened inter-agency coordination, and accelerated efforts to bring all members of the network to justice.
FIA Reaffirms Commitment Against Organized Crime
FIA officials reiterated that investigations are continuing to identify and apprehend any remaining accomplices linked to the network. The agency reaffirmed its resolve to combat drug trafficking, protect Pakistani citizens from criminal exploitation, and uphold the country’s international reputation through effective law enforcement.
BY: Nadeem Faisal Baiga
