Peshawar – A Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) official at the Torkham border has been put on suspension after a widespread outcry due to a viral video which showed him recorded capturing images of female travellers without their consent.
FIA has initiated an inquiry department and has promised a zero-tolerance policy towards such conduct.
Incident Triggers Public Outrage
The scandal was triggered when a video was shared on social media portraying an FIA official, named Ehtesham-ul-Haq, using his cell phone camera to film female travellers as he was on duty at the Torkham Immigration Check post.
The videos allegedly captured women who were not veiled being captured on camera without their consent during immigration processes. This was instantly regarded as a grave violation of privacy and an outright insult to the traditional Pashtun values that are highly valued in the area.
The quick and powerful public response gave rise to the rapid dissemination of the video, and the FIA had to undertake fast and decisive actions.
Immediate Suspension and Inquiry Ordered
As an FIA spokesman confirmed, the Director General of the agency took a keen interest in the issue immediately the video was revealed. The spokesperson confirmed that Ehtesham-ul-Haq had been suspended to service without delay.
Further, a departmental investigation is launched to establish the extent of the incident. To carry out an in-depth and open investigation, the Director of the FIA Peshawar Zone has been asked to prepare a comprehensive report.
The FIA spokesperson also expressed the importance of integrity in upholding professionalism and respect in a statement.
“The FIA remains committed to providing a respectful and dignified immigration experience to all travelers,” the spokesperson stated. “Any misuse of authority or violation of official duty will not be tolerated under any circumstances,” he added.
Modernization of Services
The agency also emphasised its continuous attempts of reformation of its services. It has declared that it is undertaking an emergency restructuring of immigration services to modernise and provide adherence to professional standards by its staff.
The spokesperson restated that all the officials are supposed to treat the people courteously, legally and disciplined. They threatened to subject any violations to a hard disciplinary course without any discrimination.
