FIA fines crew Rs2 million over fake seafarer documents in Karachi

The Federal Investigation Agency’s Immigration Wing has imposed a fine of Rs2 million on a ship crew member after uncovering the use of fake maritime documents at Karachi Port.

According to officials, the action was taken during an immigration clearance check of the vessel CV Albert P, which was carrying 1,352 containers.

Authorities said the ship’s crew was found using fraudulent seafarer documentation while attempting to travel through Pakistani waters under a foreign flag. The vessel was registered under the Marshall Islands flag.

During inspection, FIA officials discovered that some crew members were using fake seamen’s books allegedly issued under Belize and Bahamas authorities. Investigators further found that neither valid flag-state seamen’s books nor required international supporting documents were available.

Punjab bans unregistered fundraising by charities

Following the violation, FIA declared four crew members inadmissible for immigration purposes and barred them from entering Pakistan.

Officials said the enforcement action was part of ongoing efforts to curb document fraud and strengthen border control procedures at ports of entry.

The agency added that strict scrutiny is being maintained on maritime arrivals to prevent misuse of forged travel and identity documents in international shipping operations.

Further investigations are underway to determine how the fake documents were obtained and whether any wider network is involved in facilitating fraudulent maritime travel.