Illegal Transfer of AED 9 Million via Hawala Exposed, Advertising Agency CFO Arrested

Karachi: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested a suspect involved in the illegal transfer of large sums of money through the hawala system, officials said.

According to an FIA spokesperson, the Commercial Banking Circle, during the investigation of FIR No. 10/2026, uncovered a hawala network facilitating illicit fund transfers. The probe revealed that a prominent advertising agency had illegally transferred substantial amounts to foreign accounts.

Investigations indicate that AED 9 million (approximately PKR 735 million) was moved through unauthorized channels. During the operation, the agency’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO) was taken into custody, with preliminary inquiries confirming his involvement in the illegal transfers. The suspect remains in FIA custody for further investigation.

The FIA spokesperson added that raids are ongoing to identify other individuals and facilitators involved in the case, and additional financial transaction records are being collected for further evidence.