Crackdown on Fake Visas: Dozens of Pakistanis Arrested in Iraq, Says Sindh Tourism Minister

Karachi: Sindh’s Minister of Tourism, Zulfiqar Shah, has revealed that numerous Pakistanis have been apprehended in Iraq for using counterfeit visas and passports. He disclosed this during an event with travel and tour operators, highlighting that several countries, including the UAE, have tightened visa regulations due to complaints of slipping through fake documents.
Shah emphasized that the Sindh government has initiated actions against companies and travel agencies involved in human smuggling and issuing fake passports and visas. He underscored the need for cooperation from travel and tour operators, warning of license cancellations for those complicit in illegal activities related to fake documents.
The Minister noted that the UAE Consul General has raised concerns about a significant number of Pakistanis slipping into the UAE after visiting other countries, prompting stricter visa measures for Pakistanis due to the involvement of some travel agencies in fraudulent practices.
Provincial Minister Saeed Ghani added that associations of travel agents should identify agents engaged in such illicit activities to facilitate government actions. He lamented that Pakistanis are facing increasing difficulties worldwide due to tightened visa policies, affecting the country’s reputation and its citizens abroad.
Sindh’s Minister for Labor, Saeed Ghani, assured that despite economic challenges, efforts would continue to enhance facilities for pilgrims visiting the holy sites, emphasizing support for stakeholders in the sector.