Over 32,000 Passports Stolen from Pakistani Offices, PAC Informed
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) was informed on Wednesday that thousands of passports have been stolen from passport offices across Pakistan over the years, raising serious concerns about potential misuse.
Details of the Theft
During a meeting of Subcommittee IV of the PAC, chaired by Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Director General of Passports Mustafa Qazi revealed that thefts had taken place in 25 passport offices, including Abbottabad.
Audit officials reported that a total of 32,600 passports had been stolen. However, Qazi assured the committee that all stolen passports had been blocked in the system and could not be used again.
Security Concerns
Expressing concern, Chairman Chaudhry highlighted the risks such incidents pose, particularly in the current sensitive security environment.
Qazi further informed the committee that the Ministry of Interior had already taken measures against foreigners who had illegally traveled to Saudi Arabia from Pakistan. He said several Afghan nationals deported from Riyadh were among those detected.
Steps for Prevention
In response to the breaches, authorities are working on digitizing the passport system to improve security and prevent future thefts. Qazi also mentioned that a cyber-audit of NADRA was conducted two years ago, making it harder to forge or manipulate identity documents.
Next Steps
The subcommittee has directed Qazi to submit a comprehensive inquiry report on the matter, ensuring accountability and stronger safeguards moving forward.
