Pakistan arrests two NADRA officials over forged IDs for Afghans

Pakistani authorities arrested two officials of the country's national identity registration authority and two other suspects on Wednesday.

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) said the group is accused of running a network that issued forged CNICs to Afghan nationals.

What is the NADRA fake CNIC case in Karachi?

The FIA arrested two National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) officials and two other suspects during a joint intelligence-based operation in Karachi.

The agency said the group allegedly issued forged identity documents to Afghan nationals and tampered with official records. Initial evidence also suggests possible links to militant elements, though the FIA did not name any specific group.

Who was arrested in the FIA operation?

The arrested suspects included an assistant director and a deputy assistant director at NADRA, as well as a security guard and a private agent, the FIA said.

The operation involved the FIA working alongside other law enforcement agencies in the southern port city.

What did investigators find?

Preliminary investigations indicate the group was involved in issuing forged identity documents, tampering with official records and facilitating other illegal activities, the FIA said.

Investigators seized records and other evidence during the operation. The agency said the scope of the investigation has expanded and further arrests are expected.

Why is Pakistan cracking down on fake CNICs for Afghans?

Pakistan has tightened scrutiny of identity documentation and undocumented foreigners in recent years amid security concerns. The crackdown forms part of a nationwide effort targeting illegal immigration, particularly among Afghan nationals.

The government has said the measures aim to strengthen national security and curb document fraud, while rights groups have raised concerns over the impact on refugees and long-term Afghan residents.

The FIA said all those found to have facilitated the network would be brought to justice. It pledged to continue operations against organized criminal groups involved in document forgery, terrorism facilitation and other threats to national security.