FIA Detains Two NADRA Officials Over Fake CNICs to Afghan Nationals

FIA Detains Two NADRA Officials Over Fake CNICs to Afghan Nationals

ByBisma Zafar

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested two employees of NADRA’s Bahawalpur office on allegations of issuing national identity cards to Afghan citizens. The detained officials, Shahzad Ahmed and Asif Bashir, were apprehended during an operation conducted by FIA’s Multan Zone.

Details of the Arrest and Legal Actions

Following their arrest, authorities have filed cases against the two under the NADRA Ordinance as well as applicable provisions of the Pakistan Penal Code and the Prevention of Corruption Act. This move is part of ongoing efforts by the FIA to crack down on fraudulent issuance of CNICs to non-citizens, particularly Afghans.

Past Incidents Highlight Systemic Issues

These arrests are the latest in a series targeting NADRA personnel involved in similar activities. Earlier on October 1, the FIA’s Counter Terrorism Wing detained NADRA’s Assistant Director, Aftab, who is accused of accepting a bribe of Rs120 million to reinstate 51 canceled CNICs of Afghan nationals. Officials reported that a portion of that money was used to invest in real estate in Islamabad and Havelian. Cash totaling Rs1.9 million was seized from his residence.

Furthermore, on July 22, another group of NADRA employees and associates were arrested in Karachi over allegations of issuing fake ID cards and falsifying records. Investigations suggested potential links between those implicated and militant groups.

In June, a similar case saw four NADRA officials detained in Charsadda, underscoring the persistent challenge NADRA faces in safeguarding the integrity of Pakistan’s identification system.

Why This Matters to Pakistan

The fraudulent issuance of CNICs to Afghan nationals raises serious national security concerns, including risks of illegal infiltration and misuse of government resources. NADRA, as the authoritative body responsible for citizens’ data, plays a critical role in preventing identity fraud. These repeated incidents spotlight the need for stronger oversight and accountability within the institution.

For Pakistani citizens, such breaches undermine public trust in national ID systems and complicate efforts for law enforcement agencies to maintain secure borders. The FIA’s continued crackdown reflects the government’s growing resolve to address corruption and misuse within state agencies, which is vital for maintaining administrative integrity and national security.

A FIA spokesperson noted, “We are committed to ensuring that the issuance of CNICs adheres strictly to legal frameworks and protects Pakistan’s security interests.” The arrests serve as a deterrent and a signal for enhanced vigilance within NADRA.

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