The Federal Investigation Agency has launched a major crackdown on a multibillion-rupee scam linked to call centers in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The operation, dubbed “Operation Grey,” was initiated after a State Bank of Pakistan report flagged suspicious transactions worth billions of rupees across 36 companies.
A woman and a private bank manager have been arrested, and over 300 Chinese nationals were detained in raids across Islamabad and Rawalpindi. However, only 72 Chinese nationals were arrested in two cases and sent to jail, while 84 were deported from Islamabad last week.
The raids were conducted on call centers in E-11, F-8, and Gulberg Green in Islamabad, as well as Murree Road and Bahria Town Phase Seven in Rawalpindi. Computers and other equipment were seized, and some were allegedly destroyed to conceal evidence.
The FIA is investigating possible internal collusion, including the potential involvement of some FIA and cybercrime officials. The agency has recovered Bitcoin from suspects’ cryptocurrency wallets and seized large sums of foreign currency.
The scam reportedly involved online gambling, loan apps, call center scams, bogus investment platforms, and explicit content sites. Funds were laundered via hawala and hundi systems and converted into cryptocurrency for transfer abroad.
The operation is ongoing, and the FIA has assured that the media will be fully informed once it is completed. The crackdown highlights the agency’s efforts to combat cybercrime and protect the country’s financial systems.
