ISLAMABAD, December 29, 2025 – The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has stepped up its nationwide action against hawala, hundi, and illegal currency exchange, seizing currency worth over Rs1.99 billion and arresting 667 suspects during 2025.
According to an FIA official, the crackdown was carried out on the directives of Director General FIA Rifat Mukhtar Raja as part of a countrywide campaign against unlicensed money changers and financial crimes.
During the year, the FIA conducted 523 raids, registered 546 cases, and completed investigations into 174 inquiries linked to illegal currency trading and money transfer activities. These operations led to the recovery of both foreign and local currency, including US$777,868, other foreign currencies valued at more than Rs320 million, and over Rs1.45 billion in Pakistani rupees.
Arrests were made across multiple regions. Peshawar recorded the highest number with 199 arrests, followed by Balochistan (120), Karachi (101), Multan (70), Kohat (63), Lahore (58), Islamabad (22), Faisalabad (15), and Hyderabad (14).
The suspects were involved in illegal currency exchange without valid licenses. Several plazas, markets, and shops were also sealed during the operations. The FIA said the raids were carried out with the support of other law enforcement agencies.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to taking strict legal action against those involved in currency smuggling and pursuing international agents linked to illegal financial activities to ensure transparency and stability in Pakistan’s financial system.