Calling such agents mafias who gamble with people’s futures for profit, the minister said the government would pursue a zero tolerance policy against those involved in exploitation.
Sharing details on the social media platform X, Naqvi said he made a surprise visit to Islamabad International Airport, where he met passengers departing for various destinations and listened to their concerns first hand.
One traveler complained about a shortage of immigration staff an issue the minister took serious notice of, immediately ordering an inquiry and a review of CCTV footage.
Naqvi emphasized that any traveler with complete and verified documents must not be stopped under any circumstances, adding that those attempting to travel with fake or dubious papers would face strict action. Such reckless behavior harms Pakistan’s reputation, he cautioned.
The statement comes days after circulating social media claims alleging that passengers were being offloaded from planes without reason. On November 27, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) dismissed these claims as baseless and misleading, saying they were aimed at sowing unnecessary panic among the public.
The agency stressed that passengers with legitimate documents and lawful travel purposes are never obstructed, and that the safety and dignity of travelers remains its top priority.
The FIA also urged citizens to avoid falling for false promises of illegal agents, advising them to travel only with proper, verified documentation.
Meanwhile, Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain instructed the FIA to promptly resolve complaints involving overseas bound workers allegedly being removed from aircraft without justification.
As the government moves to rein in fraudulent agents, officials insist that clean procedures, transparent checks, and lawful travel are the only way to protect citizens and uphold the country’s global standing.
