Interior Minister Rehman Malik on Saturday said British tabloid The Sun’s news story of alleged passport scam was a conspiracy to mar Pakistan’s reputation.
Addressing news conference ‚ he said investigations into the matter are almost complete which prove that Pakistan’s National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) and passport systems are intact.
He said central figure Asad Ali got Pakistani passport in year 2000 and went to UK where he got British passport and dual nationality. He visited Pakistan on a British passport and visa and his movements were recorded during visit to NADRA and Passport Office.Malik said as Asad colluded with the Sun in a bid to malign Pakistan‚ “We are writing to the British government for his deportation to face criminal proceedings. Facts gathered during investigations have also been sent to British newspaper through Pakistan High Commission in London.
“Pakistan would first lodge a complaint with National Press Trust of UK‚ which can also refer the case for libel proceedings. Travel agent Abid Chaudhry is being interrogated by FIA but has not been arrested due to death of his brother,” he added.
The interior minister said India is being approached once again to allow judicial commission from Pakistan to visit the country to cross-examine four witnesses in connection with Mumbai attacks. Cross-examination of these witnesses was necessary for completion of court proceedings in Pakistan. “India did not allow cross-examination during previous visit of Pakistan’s judicial commission members to India. I would also write a letter to my Indian counterpart in this regard,” he stated.
The Sun conspired against Pakistan: Malik
