Gang issuing fake vaccination certificates busted

LAHORE : The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Lahore Zone has taken action against an organised gang involved in issuing fake vaccination certificates and extorting money at a government vaccination centre designated for Umrah pilgrims.

According to FIA officials, six employees of the Federal Health Centre on Birdwood Road, Lahore, have been arrested for their alleged involvement in fraud and extortion. The arrested individuals have been identified as Dr Shehzad Naseem (Civil Surgeon), Muhammad Akram (Nursing Assistant), Shehzad Mehmood (Junior Clerk), Umair Masih (Sanitary Worker), Waqas Masih (Sanitary Worker), and Noor-ul-Hassan (Naib Qasid).

Initial investigations revealed that the accused, in collusion with each other, were issuing fake vaccination certificates in exchange for bribes without administering the vaccine.

The FIA has initiated an inquiry following the arrests, with further detentions expected based on the suspects' disclosures.

“The crackdown against those involved in fraud continues, and strict action will be taken against all corrupt elements,” said FIA Lahore Zone Director Sarfaraz Khan Virk. —Sher Ali Khalti