Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) is investigating an alleged online gambling network suspected of processing Rs. 119.93 billion through mobile wallet accounts linked to a telecom network. Company insiders are also suspected of helping the network bypass security checks.
According to details of the case, the FIA registered a First Information Report (FIR) on September 24, 2026. Investigators suspect the network used shell companies, fake websites and multiple financial accounts to process payments for offshore gambling platforms.
The investigation found that several corporate branchless banking accounts were opened between 2024 and 2025 in the names of single-member companies posing as e-commerce and digital marketing businesses. Some officials of the mobile wallet provider are suspected of assisting the accused in opening these accounts and avoiding routine compliance checks.
One individual reportedly told investigators that an associate had discussed payment arrangements directly with officials at the mobile wallet provider. Another suspect allegedly created dummy websites to test payment integrations with offshore online gaming and gambling platforms.
Investigators suspect the arrangement was presented on behalf of a Chinese associate who worked as an agent for online gaming and gambling platforms.
The parties allegedly agreed to share the proceeds. One suspect in custody reportedly claimed to have earned between Rs. 400 million and Rs. 450 million in about a year, while another party allegedly received between Rs. 100 million and Rs. 150 million.
The investigation also identified multiple shell companies allegedly used to collect and move funds. Five branchless banking collection accounts reportedly processed around Rs. 8.586 billion through approximately 10.49 million transactions.
The FIR further suspects that some of the money was routed through businesses, including scrap dealers and mobile phone shops. Investigators are also examining the alleged use of digital hawala channels and cryptocurrency to settle transactions.
