FIA Karachi Zone has intensified its crackdown on illegal currency operations, arresting two suspects involved in hawala/hundi and unauthorized foreign exchange activities in separate raids across the city.

According to FIA spokesperson, coordinated raids were conducted by the Anti-Corruption Circle and Corporate Crime Circle in two key areas Jamshed Road and Tariq Road, Karachi. During these operations, two individuals identified as Hamza Saleem and Aqeel Abbas were apprehended.

Preliminary investigations revealed that Aqeel Abbas was actively connected to a hawala/hundi network reportedly being operated from Dubai through agents identified as Musaddiq and Hussnain. Meanwhile, Hamza Saleem was found involved in unauthorized currency exchange dealings.

The FIA recovered a total of Rs. 4.5 million in suspected hawala payments and USD 13,500 in foreign currency during the raids. In addition, key evidence including receipts and mobile phones related to the hawala operations were seized from the possession of Aqeel Abbas.

The suspects failed to provide satisfactory explanations regarding the source and ownership of the recovered currency. Both have been taken into custody, and investigations are currently underway. FIA officials have also launched further raids to apprehend other members of the network.

The FIA reiterated its commitment to curbing financial crimes and warned that strict legal action will continue against individuals involved in illegal money transfers and unauthorized currency exchange businesses.