The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) says it has arrested five people suspected of operating an illegal kidney transplant network in Islamabad and other locations.
The agency said the group allegedly charged 3 million rupees for a kidney transplant, raising concerns about the illegal trade in human organs and the safety of patients undergoing medical procedures outside authorised facilities.
According to the FIA, evidence suggests the alleged network involved medical staff, agents and other facilitators. Investigators say the donor was paid 400,000 rupees, while agents reportedly received 60,000 rupees.
The FIA’s Anti-Corruption Circle carried out the operation and arrested five suspects. Officials said they recovered 10 million rupees in cash and three vehicles.
Investigators allege that the suspects performed kidney transplants in residential properties without the required medical qualifications.
The network was reportedly operating in a private housing society and in various locations in Peshawar.
According to the agency, people including doctors, nurses, medicine suppliers and laboratory testing staff were allegedly involved.
The FIA said the suspects allegedly arranged tissue-typing, cross-matching and other necessary tests at a hospital through unlawful means.
Officials also said dialysis for patients was arranged at a hospital in Islamabad through a technician.
The allegations have raised questions about medical oversight and patient safety, particularly when complex surgical procedures are carried out in residential properties rather than authorised medical facilities.
The FIA said it had frozen properties belonging to the suspects valued at 87.5 million rupees. Officials added that the registration of vehicles used by the suspects had been cancelled.
The agency has also written to banks seeking information about the suspects’ accounts as part of its investigation into the alleged financial activities.
The reported difference between the amount allegedly charged for a transplant and the money paid to the donor is a key aspect of the investigation.
According to the FIA, the group charged 3 million rupees for a transplant, while the donor received 400,000 rupees.
