KARACHI: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) arrested a female crew member of Saudi Airlines at Jinnah International Airport on Friday after recovering a significant cache of prohibited items from her possession.
The Seizure
According to an FIA spokesperson, the air hostess was attempting to board a flight to Saudi Arabia on an exit-re-entry visa. During a search of her belongings, officials discovered 26 bundles of cigarettes, 9 packets of Gutka, and large quantities of tobacco and betel nuts (Supari).
Startling Revelations
During initial interrogation, the suspect—who has been serving as an air hostess since 2014—confessed to being involved in the illegal transport of contraband for the past six months. She admitted to smuggling these items multiple times every month.
The suspect further revealed a deep-rooted network within the aviation sector, claiming that 10 to 12 other crew members are actively involved in similar illegal activities. She also stated that the smuggling operations were facilitated by the collusion of various departmental officials and airport staff, who helped clear the prohibited goods.
Legal Action
The FIA has taken the crew member into custody and shifted her to the relevant cell for further investigation. Authorities are now expanding the scope of the inquiry to identify and apprehend other members of the syndicate and the facilitators mentioned in her statement.
