10 'beggars' deported from Saudi Arabia arrested in Pakistan
Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) detained ten individuals at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport following their deportation from Saudi Arabia, where they allegedly engaged in begging while masquerading as Umrah pilgrims.
Authorities in Pakistan have expressed growing concern over the misuse of pilgrimage and travel visas by citizens seeking to beg abroad. This practice risks damaging the credibility of legitimate visa applicants, particularly those undertaking religious journeys to Saudi Arabia.
Reports indicate that Saudi officials formally addressed the issue with Pakistan during bilateral discussions in 2023, urging stricter oversight to curb such activities. In response, Pakistan’s Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, announced in November 2024 that nationwide efforts were underway to combat individuals exploiting visas for begging abroad.
The arrests occurred after the suspects arrived in Karachi on Saudi Arabian Airlines flight SV-704. Preliminary investigations revealed the group had reportedly spent months soliciting money in Saudi Arabia. The FIA’s Immigration Wing confirmed the detainees have been handed over to the Anti-Human Trafficking Circle in Karachi, where legal proceedings will continue.
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