LAHORE: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has warned that no passenger who could damage the country’s reputation will be allowed to travel, emphasizing that illegal immigration will not be tolerated.
Minister Naqvi, along with Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain, made a surprise visit to Lahore Airport, which lasted for two hours.
During the visit, Minister Naqvi expressed serious displeasure over long queues and slow processing at immigration counters and instructed the staff to expedite procedures. Both ministers interacted with outbound passengers and inquired about the immigration process.
Meanwhile, Minister Hussain checked protector stickers on travel documents. A young passenger heading abroad for employment as a driver was stopped from traveling due to the absence of a valid driving license. Minister Hussain expressed anger over the situation and immediately ordered an inquiry.
It was also revealed that a passenger was being allowed to travel abroad due to alleged collusion by an FIA officer, but immigration staff prevented the traveler from leaving at the counter. The offloaded passenger was assured that payments made to the private company would be refunded.
Minister Naqvi personally praised the immigration officials who stopped the passengers, awarded them cash from his own pocket, and announced plans to present them with certificates of appreciation.
Speaking at the event, Naqvi stressed that no passenger should be allowed to travel without proper documentation, illegal immigration would not be tolerated, and strict action would be taken against any officials, including those from the FIA, found involved.
Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain added that all documents related to employment under the Protector program must be thoroughly verified before approving overseas travel.
