‘Fake’ Pakistan football team deported from Japan, FIA launches probe

Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has reportedly uncovered a human trafficking racket that posed as the national football team to enter Japan.

According to reports, a 22-member group, presented as a football squad, travelled to Japan in June 2025 on 15-day visas. However, Japanese immigration authorities identified the team as fraudulent and deported them shortly after arrival. The matter was subsequently referred to the FIA, which has now arrested the alleged mastermind, Waqas Ali.

Investigators believe the gang reportedly operated under the guise of Pakistan’s footballing turmoil, where disputes over control of the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) have repeatedly drawn FIFA sanctions, including a 15-month suspension imposed in 2021. Exploiting the instability, the group reportedly used forged documents  including letters and no-objection certificates in the name of the PFF.

Members of the fake team were said to have worn full football kits and claimed to be registered with the PFF, even producing fabricated schedules of matches with Japanese clubs.

During questioning, the arrested suspect allegedly confessed that this was not the first time his network had executed such a scheme. He reportedly admitted that in 2024, 17 individuals were sent to Japan as “players” of the Pakistan football team none of whom returned.

The FIA has opened a wider investigation into the trafficking ring and its methods of forging official clearances.