Islamabad, October 11, 2026: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has registered a criminal case against two suspects in connection with an alleged Rs9.3 million visa and scholarship fraud involving Laiba Ijaz, a student of the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI), who was found dead in the capital.
According to reports, authorities have arrested suspects linked to the case, including the alleged principal accused, Muhammad Nauman. The investigation centres on allegations that Laiba and her family were deceived through promises of admission to a university in the United States.
FIA Uncovers Rs9.3 Million Scholarship Fraud
According to the FIA’s preliminary investigation, the accused allegedly collected Rs9.3 million from Laiba and her family by promising to arrange a US study visa and university scholarship.
Investigators said Rs2.9 million was transferred through Laiba’s bank account, while the remaining amount was allegedly paid in cash.
The suspects are accused of providing fraudulent scholarship letters, university admission documents and fee payment receipts to convince the family that the admission process was genuine.
Suspects Arrested as Investigation Expands
The FIA’s Anti-Human Trafficking Circle registered a case against Muhammad Nauman and Fatima Sarwar under relevant provisions of the Pakistan Penal Code and Emigration Ordinance.
The original 24NewsHD report states that two women associated with Nauman were arrested. Other news outlets have reported the arrest of Nauman and a female suspect, so the precise number and identities of those detained remain subject to confirmation.
Police sources also reported recovering possible evidence of online fraud and alleged blackmail from Nauman’s mobile phone. Investigators are examining whether additional individuals were involved in the suspected operation.
Laiba Ijaz Found Dead in Islamabad
Laiba Ijaz, a gold-medal graduate of IIUI, was found dead in Islamabad’s G-10 area on October 9.
Initial police findings suggested a possible death by suicide. Investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding her death, including allegations that she had discovered the university admission documents provided to her were fraudulent.
Authorities have also obtained CCTV footage as part of the investigation. The exact circumstances of her death remain under investigation.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Orders Action
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took notice of the incident and directed Islamabad’s police chief and chief commissioner to ensure action against those allegedly responsible.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also visited the bereaved family, expressed condolences and assured them that the authorities would pursue the investigation.
The FIA has said it will examine the evidence and determine the involvement of any additional suspects.
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Case Raises Concerns About Overseas Education Scams
The incident has renewed attention on fraudulent education consultants who promise international university admissions, scholarships and visas in exchange for substantial payments.
Students seeking overseas education are advised to verify admission offers directly with universities, confirm the credentials of consultants and avoid transferring money without checking official documentation.
The allegations against those named in the Laiba Ijaz case remain subject to investigation and legal proceedings.
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