The FIA drug smuggling case took a significant turn after the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) arrested a key suspect accused of using the promise of free Umrah trips to allegedly smuggle crystal meth (“ice”) into Saudi Arabia through unsuspecting pilgrims.
According to FIA officials, the suspect, identified as Gul Nawaz, had been a proclaimed offender for about a year before being arrested during a raid in Peshawar. He has since been transferred to Faisalabad for further investigation.
Suspect Arrested After Year on the Run
The operation was carried out by an FIA Faisalabad team led by SHO Sub-Inspector Ajmal Hussain.
Officials said two other suspects named in the case, Saddam Hussain and Israr Ahmed, are already in custody.
Pilgrims Allegedly Used as Unwitting Drug Couriers
According to investigators, the group allegedly targeted five residents of Jaranwala in September 2024 by offering them free Umrah packages.
The pilgrims included three women—Ziarat Bibi, Anwar Bibi and Shamim Bibi—as well as mosque imam Riaz and Nair Abbas. Investigators allege that narcotics were concealed inside gift packages placed in the pilgrims’ luggage without their knowledge.
Five Pakistani Pilgrims Remain Jailed in Saudi Arabia
Authorities said Saudi officials recovered the suspected drugs after the group’s arrival at Jeddah Airport, leading to the arrest of all five pilgrims.
According to the report, a Saudi court later sentenced the five individuals to life imprisonment. Pakistani authorities are continuing diplomatic efforts aimed at securing their release and repatriation.
The FIA said investigations into the alleged smuggling network remain ongoing.
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