No Passenger With Genuine Documents Should Be Restricted From Travelling Says Naqvi

ISLAMABAD_ Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited Islamabad International Airport on Saturday, emphasizing that no passenger with genuine and complete travel documents should ever be prevented from travelling. His remarks came amid reports of passengers being offloaded from flights over the past few months, despite having valid documentation. These measures followed the government’s crackdown on migrant smuggling after last year’s Greece boat tragedy, which claimed several Pakistani lives.

Meeting Passengers and Hearing Concerns

Naqvi stated on X that he met passengers at the airport to hear their concerns firsthand. He ordered a strict crackdown against exploitative visa agents. He took immediate notice of a complaint lodged on November 7 regarding low staffing at immigration counters, directing a thorough CCTV review and inquiry into the matter.

Strict Measures Against Fake or Unverified Documents

The minister stressed that passengers with verified documents must never face obstruction, while those attempting to travel with fake or unverified documents will be stopped. He warned that such actions damage Pakistan’s international reputation, and reassured that agent mafias exploiting citizens for financial gain will face zero tolerance.

FIA Clarifies Procedures and Investigations

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) clarified that passengers are only offloaded if they lack valid documentation or are suspected of links to human smuggling networks. The FIA has also taken legal action against those spreading false information on social media about passenger offloading. FIA Director General Riffat Mukhtar acknowledged similar incidents at Lahore and Karachi airports and confirmed that investigations are ongoing to ensure transparency and prevent abuse of authority.

Protecting Citizens and Ensuring Compliance

The government highlighted that the crackdown is aimed at safeguarding citizens, preventing human trafficking, and ensuring confidence in Pakistan’s border management processes. Naqvi’s visit reinforces the need for transparent, efficient travel procedures while holding accountable those who seek to exploit or manipulate the system.