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The Federal Investigation Agency Act, 1974, is a foundational piece of legislation that gave birth to Pakistan’s top investigative body the FIA (Federal Investigation Agency). The FIA is empowered to investigate crimes that impact the country’s internal security, financial integrity, and public trust, such as.
Money laundering
Human trafficking
Cybercrime
Passport and visa fraud
Corruption in public offices
Before 1974, Pakistan lacked a central investigative body that could handle complex crimes across provincial and national boundaries. This gap was felt strongly after repeated cases of financial scams, fraud, and international crimes. Recognizing this, the government introduced the FIA Act to consolidate investigative authority.
The Act was passed on January 13, 1975, and replaced the Pakistan Special Police Establishment. It is modeled partly on the American FBI system.
The FIA was established to.
Investigate offenses listed under the Schedule of the FIA Act
Maintain national security and combat transnational crimes
Cooperate with Interpol and other international agencies
Strengthen public accountability and fight high level corruption
The FIA has jurisdiction over.
All Pakistani provinces and the federal capital
Ports, airports, and border control areas
International crimes in coordination with foreign law enforcement agencies
FIA functions through specialized wings, each with defined duties.
Handles.!
Online fraud
Identity theft
Social media blackmail
Hacking and data breaches
Handles.!
Corruption in federal departments
Abuse of authority
Illegal contracts and tenders
Handles.!
Human smuggling
Fake passports and visas
Illegal immigration
Handles.!
Bank fraud
Money laundering
Fake financial documents
The FIA Act empowers its officers similarly to police but with special authority, including.
Power to arrest without warrant
Power to confiscate property and freeze accounts
Access to digital records and private communications
Legal authority to conduct international investigations
These powers are listed in the Schedule of the Act and expanded by subsequent ordinances and rules.
Explains the structure and control of the FIA. The Director-General (DG) leads the agency.
Defines how officers can investigate, arrest, and submit charge sheets to the court.
Places the agency under the control of the Interior Ministry.
Lists all the laws under which the FIA can take action, including.
Prevention of Corruption Act
Foreign Exchange Regulation Act
Passport Act
Cybercrime laws (PECA)
Despite its power, the FIA has its share of challenges.!
Limited staff and resources
Overlapping jurisdiction with provincial police
Political interference
Backlogs in courts leading to delay in justice
However, in recent years, efforts have been made to digitize operations, train staff, and establish cyber units to modernize the force.
The FIA Act has evolved with Pakistan’s changing legal landscape. Notable reforms include.!
Enhanced powers under PECA 2016 to handle cybercrimes
Amendments to better cooperate with Interpol
Establishment of the Anti Human Trafficking Circle
Are you facing a case involving FIA investigation, cybercrime, immigration issues, or financial fraud? Our team of top criminal lawyers in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad has decades of experience in.
Challenging illegal FIA actions
Defending clients in cybercrime FIRs
Representing individuals accused of corruption or money laundering
Helping victims of online scams and identity theft
We offer.!
Confidential legal advice
Fast case review and documentation
Representation in FIA Courts
Contact MAH&CO. today for expert legal assistance in FIA related matters. We serve clients in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.
The Federal Investigation Agency Act, 1974, is not just a piece of law it’s a protective shield against rising cyber threats, frauds, and criminal conspiracies. Whether you’re a victim or someone caught in an FIA probe, knowing your rights is crucial. And having experienced lawyers on your side makes all the difference.
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