LAHORE: The Airport Security Force (ASF) arrested a man posing as a Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) pilot at Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport on Tuesday.
Impostor Details
An ASF spokesperson identified the impostor as Ahmed. He tried to enter the international departure lounge using a fake PIA pilot ID card. The authorities promptly handed him over to the Airport Police for further legal action.
Legal Actions
A case has been registered against the fake pilot. Investigators are working to uncover the extent of his fraudulent activities and any potential security implications.
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Background and Context
This incident follows a significant scandal involving pilots’ licenses in Pakistan. In July 2020, the European Aviation Agency banned all Pakistani airlines after revelations about fake pilot licenses.
Ongoing Investigations
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) uncovered a network of employees and pilots involved in the scam. Sources indicate that the CAA is conducting raids to apprehend two suspects linked to the scheme. Aviation employees allegedly used intermediaries to collect bribes for issuing fake licenses.
Fraudulent Activities
License branch employees reportedly received substantial sums from pilots for exam papers, allowing others to sit in their place. Several license branch officials and pilots are currently in remand. The investigation has been expanded, and FIRs are being registered against those involved in the fraudulent activities.
