An International Islamic University Islamabad graduate tragically lost her life after discovering the US study visa and travel documents she paid millions for were entirely fake. According to Geo News, the prime suspect in the alleged fraud and subsequent suicide, Muhammad Noman, was handed over to the police on a five-day physical remand by an Islamabad court on Monday.

The case came to light after the victim's body was found hanging by a roadside in the G-10 area within the Ramna police station's jurisdiction, Geo News reported. Produced before Judicial Magistrate Zunaira Zafar at the District and Sessions Courts in Islamabad, the suspect faced an investigating officer who asserted that a thorough examination of the circumstances was essential.

Key Facts

  • Geo News reported that the investigating officer told the court further investigation is required based on available evidence and preliminary findings to determine the suspect's role and verify linked items.
  • According to Geo News, the investigation revealed evidence pointing to the suspect's alleged involvement in online fraud and the blackmailing of women, with sources noting he had previously worked at the Anti-Corruption Establishment in Quetta and an Islamabad company before being suspended.
  • The First Information Report (FIR), unsealed by police and registered on October 10 at the Ramna police station, states that the victim's father, Muhammad Ijaz, accused Noman and a woman named Aiza of responsibility for his daughter's death, according to Geo News.
  • Geo News reported that the complainant alleged Noman introduced himself as an influential high official near the Blue Area six to seven months ago, agreeing on a total expense of Rs9.3 million for a US study visa.
  • According to the FIR cited by Geo News, the family paid Rs2.1 million in cash and later transferred Rs2.9 million via bank account, after which Noman provided fake travel documents and a fake $20,000 bank statement receipt before cutting off communication.

Background

According to details reported by Geo News, the victim met the primary suspect near the capital's Blue Area where he presented himself as an influential high-ranking official capable of arranging study abroad opportunities. After collecting substantial cash and bank transfers totaling several million rupees, the suspect delivered documents that proved to be completely fraudulent. When confronted about the deception, the suspect allegedly stopped answering phone calls, while an associate named Aiza continually pressured the victim for additional funds, leaving the graduate under severe mental stress.

Why it matters

This tragic incident draws attention to the serious vulnerabilities individuals face when dealing with unauthorized agents and fraudulent overseas employment or education schemes. For families and students pursuing legitimate international opportunities in Pakistan, the case underscores the vital importance of rigorous verification and institutional oversight to prevent financial exploitation and severe psychological distress.

What's next

Geo News reported that the suspect has been remanded into police custody for five days to allow investigators to verify evidence, examine relevant items, and thoroughly probe the allegations of fraud and blackmail.