Major Reshuffle in FIA: Controversial Lahore Director Sarfraz Virk Transferred Amid Corruption Allegations

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has announced a significant reshuffle in its senior ranks, with the most notable change being the transfer of Sarfraz Khan Work, the long-serving and controversial Director of FIA Lahore Zone.

The move follows the recent appointment of Riffat Mukhtar as the new Director General of FIA, who has begun implementing sweeping changes aimed at restoring accountability and integrity within the agency.

As per FIA Notification No. A/2253/HR-I/2025/5108-20, dated July 7, 2025, Captain (Retired) Muhammad Ali Zia (PSP, BS-20) has been appointed as the new Director FIA Lahore Zone, transferring from FIA Headquarters Islamabad. Sarfraz Virk has been posted to FIA Headquarters in Islamabad.

Sarfraz Virkk’s tenure in Lahore, while marked by high-profile operations against human trafficking, money laundering, and illegal organ transplants, had become increasingly controversial. Multiple intelligence reports accused him of corruption involving billions of rupees, allegedly funneled through his brother. Further concerns included FIA Lahore’s apparent inaction against large-scale electricity theft in LESCO and the failure to recover over Rs 5 billion from defaulters. During his time, the dedicated electricity, gas, and oil anti-theft unit was reportedly merged with the Anti-Corruption Circle or disbanded altogether.

These developments led to a confidential directive from the Prime Minister’s Office on September 13, 2024. Signed by Secretary to the Prime Minister Asad Rehman Gilani, the document ordered immediate disciplinary action against the officials named in the report and mandated that the Establishment Division keep their conduct under close scrutiny. Despite this, Sarfraz Virk did not relinquish his post for over six months, further complicating the matter.

It was only after Federal Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi intervened that the transfer was enforced. Naqvi is said to have instructed the new DG FIA to reform the agency, eliminate internal corruption, and ensure better access to justice for the public.

With Riffat Mukhtar now leading the FIA, the agency is expected to see a shift toward greater transparency and institutional reform. The decision to remove Sarfraz Virk is being viewed as a critical step in reestablishing public trust and reinforcing the rule of law. Legal experts have welcomed the move and emphasized the need for continued vigilance and accountability within key enforcement institutions.

The official notification regarding the transfers was signed by Deputy Director (HRM) Jair Nasrani.