ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested a man for allegedly submitting fake documents in an attempt to obtain a US student visa.
The FIA Anti-Human Trafficking Circle in Islamabad launched the investigation after receiving a complaint from the US Embassy.
According to initial findings, the suspect had reportedly paid Rs200,000 to an educational consultancy in Lahore for processing his visa application.
Investigators found that fake bank statements, Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) tax records and other supporting documents had allegedly been prepared and submitted to the US Embassy along with the application.
The documents were later found to be fraudulent during the verification process, prompting the FIA to register a case against the suspect and his alleged agent.
Officials said the suspect has been taken into custody while further investigation is underway. The FIA is also examining the possible involvement of other facilitators and individuals allegedly linked to the case.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the identity of the suspect or the educational consultancy involved in the alleged fraud.
The case highlights the risks associated with using fraudulent documents for overseas education and visa applications. Applicants seeking student visas are required to provide authentic financial, academic and other supporting records during the application process.
The FIA is continuing its inquiry to establish how the alleged documents were prepared, identify those involved and determine whether similar applications were processed through the consultancy. Officials said further details would be shared as the investigation progresses.
