Pakistan arrests four over alleged fake identity documents for Afghan nationals

Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) says it has arrested four people, including two senior officials of the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), over the alleged issuance of fraudulent identity documents to Afghan nationals in the southern city of Karachi. An FIA spokesperson said on Wednesday that those arrested include NADRA deputy directors Inam-ul-Haq and Fayyaz Ahmed, a security guard, and a man identified as Mohammad Omar Shah, who is accused of acting as a middleman. The agency said documents and other evidence were seized during the operation, adding that further arrests are likely as the investigation continues. According to the FIA, preliminary findings indicate that the suspects were involved in issuing fake identity documents, tampering with official records and other illegal activities. The agency also said it is investigating possible links between the alleged network and armed groups. The arrests come as Pakistan has intensified its campaign to deport Afghan nationals over the past two years. Thousands of Afghans have faced legal uncertainty after their residency documents were not renewed, leaving many at risk of deportation.