Mathew Barett: Important decision taken regarding US blacklisted citizen
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ISLAMABAD (APP): Minister for Interior, Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan on Friday said in light of findings of Joint Investigation Team (JIT), blacklisted American national, Matthew Barrett would be deported in next three days.
He said the findings did not suggest that Matthew Barrett was a spy but he was found in objectionable activities.
Addressing a press conference here, he said the American national was blacklisted by Pakistan in 2011 and was later deported from the country. Despite this, Matthew was issued visa by Pakistani Consulate in Houston, he added.
He said action was being taken against the officials who committed negligence in issuing visa to Matthew Barrett.
However, the official who identified him, was given appreciation and cash prize, he added.
The minister said action has also been taken against the FIA official who committed negligence in granting entry to Matthew Barrett.
Regarding campaign of verification of Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs), Ch. Nisar said National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has so far reverified around 30.12 million CNICs since launch of the campaign from July 1.
The minister said the first phase of CNIC verification campaign has successfully been completed and NADRA had sent around 3.816 million SMS while people sent 3.343 million SMS to get their CNICs verified during a period of one month and ten days.
Ch. Nisar said during the period, around 30,000 aliens were also identified whose CNICs were blocked.
He said about one third of the total CNICs have been verified and termed reverification a national duty while response of the people was also quite appreciative which should continue.
He appealed people and the media to make this national campaign a success.
Ch Nisar said NADRA had received 58,000 calls at its toll free number introduced for the re-verification purpose.
Moreover, he said during the period 14 foreigners have called and surrendered their CNICs and passports.
He warned strict legal action would be taken after August 31 against foreigners who illegally obtained Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) and cases would be also registered against those who have been living in the country by getting CNICs through unfair means.
