ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), in collaboration with the Pakistan Human Organ Transplant Authority (PHOTA), has arrested five individuals, including Chinese nationals, for their alleged involvement in the illegal collection and export of human biological material.
According to FIA officials, a raid was conducted in Islamabad’s F-7 sector, where authorities recovered a large quantity of human placenta, including fresh, dried, and processed samples. The material was seized along with equipment allegedly used in its processing.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspects had established a network to obtain human placenta from hospitals in Peshawar, Rawalpindi and Lahore. Authorities allege that the material was falsely declared as sheep organs and exported abroad.
The FIA stated that early findings indicated that the processed placenta was being shipped to Vietnam, where it may have been used in the production of pharmaceutical and medical products.
Investigators believe the suspects operated with the assistance of local facilitators and had developed an organized supply chain for the collection, processing, and export of the biological material.
Samples recovered during the operation have been sent to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for forensic and medical examination. Officials said investigations are underway to determine the full scope of the network and identify any additional individuals involved.
The FIA has also taken possession of processing materials and other evidence found at the site. Authorities said legal proceedings are being initiated against the suspects under relevant laws governing human tissue handling, public health regulations, and illegal trafficking activities.
Officials emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing and that further arrests cannot be ruled out.This version is written in a neutral, international news style suitable for publication or reporting.
