Islamabad police have arrested three suspects accused of taking Rs9.3 million from Laiba Ijaz by promising to arrange a US visa and scholarship, according to details cited in the case’s first information report (FIR).
The suspects have been identified as Nauman, Fatima Sarwar and Aiza. The case is under investigation, with police and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) examining whether additional individuals were involved in the alleged fraud.
Laiba reportedly wanted to pursue higher education in the United States. According to the FIR, the suspects allegedly collected money from her in connection with the promised visa and scholarship, but the arrangements did not materialise.
FIR Details Alleged US Scholarship Fraud
The FIR states that Laiba was provided with documents presented as scholarship records, university offer letters and fee receipts. Investigators are examining the allegations and the authenticity of the documents.
The reported amount of Rs9.3 million makes the case a significant financial fraud allegation. However, the precise circumstances of the payments, the destination of the money and the individual roles of the suspects must be established through the investigation and any subsequent court proceedings.
The suspects’ arrests do not establish guilt. They are entitled to due process, and the allegations must be tested through the legal system.
Police and FIA Probe Possible Additional Suspects
Police and the FIA are investigating whether other people may have participated in the alleged scheme.
Key questions include how the suspects allegedly secured the payments, whether the documents were fabricated and whether other students or families were approached with similar promises.
Further details from investigators, including any official statement on the arrests or recovery of money, would help establish the scope of the case. No additional arrests or financial recoveries should be treated as confirmed without an official announcement.
Laiba Ijaz Reportedly Died by Suicide on October 9
Laiba reportedly died by suicide on October 9 after experiencing severe financial pressure and emotional distress linked to the failed study-abroad arrangements, according to the initial report.
The circumstances surrounding her death and the relationship between the alleged fraud and her distress should be described carefully. The available account does not, by itself, establish a definitive causal link.
The case also highlights the importance of verifying overseas education offers before transferring large sums of money. Students should confirm admission letters and scholarship awards directly with universities, check visa requirements through official government channels and request written contracts and verifiable payment records from education consultants.
Families should be cautious of intermediaries who promise guaranteed visas or scholarships in exchange for substantial advance payments.
How Students Can Verify Overseas Education Offers
Before paying an education consultant, applicants can take several precautions.
- Contact the university directly to confirm admission and scholarship details using contact information published on its official website.
- Verify visa requirements through the destination country’s official immigration or embassy website.
- Check payment records and contracts and make sure the recipient’s identity and business details can be independently verified.
- Be wary of guaranteed outcomes, particularly promises of guaranteed visas, scholarships or admission in exchange for large upfront payments.
These checks cannot eliminate every risk, but they can help students identify suspicious offers before committing substantial funds.
The investigation into Laiba Ijaz’s case is ongoing. Official updates from police, the FIA and the courts will be important in determining the facts, identifying any wider network and establishing legal responsibility.
About Tamoor Ahmed
Tamoor Ahmad has been covering politics since 2022.
