World ( The cow news digital ) Authorities have uncovered an organized begging network operating in Saudi Arabia, with funds allegedly transferred abroad through illegal hawala and hundi channels.
The case surfaced when two passengers, Muhammad Jameel and Guria Bibi, were detained upon arrival in Karachi from Saudi Arabia by immigration officials on suspicion.
Initial investigations revealed that both individuals had traveled on Umrah visas and admitted to arranging their trip through an agent identified as Kashmir Ali from Jhelum. Authorities say the investigation later exposed a wider network involved in sending individuals abroad for organized begging.
According to officials, the network collected money in Saudi Arabia through begging activities and transferred the funds via hawala and hundi systems to an agent based in Canada. These informal channels are often used to move money across borders without official banking oversight.
Investigators also identified a facilitator named Iftikhar, also known as “Wakeel,” who is believed to have coordinated sending individuals to different countries for similar activities. A bank account linked to the operation has also been traced and is currently under investigation.
Authorities reported that mobile phones recovered from the suspects contained transaction receipts and voice messages, providing further evidence of the network’s financial operations.
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Both individuals are currently in custody and have been handed over to the Anti-Human Trafficking Circle in Karachi for further legal action. Officials say investigations are ongoing to identify other members and dismantle the entire network.
The case has raised concerns about the misuse of religious travel visas and the role of illegal financial systems in supporting cross-border criminal activities.
