FIA Fines Shipping Agency Rs3.5 Million Over Foreign Crew Documents at Karachi Port
KARACHI, November 10, 2026: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has issued a Rs. 3.5 million fine notice to a shipping agency after identifying documentation irregularities involving seven foreign crew members aboard a vessel docked at Karachi Port.
According to The News International, FIA Immigration Karachi detected the issues while examining the crew’s maritime and immigration documents.
The action involved Sharaf Shipping (Private) Limited, which was responsible for the vessel’s shipping arrangements.
What Happened at Karachi Port?
The inspection involved CS MARAM, an Abu Dhabi-flagged vessel that arrived in Karachi from Salalah, Oman.
The ship was docked at West Wharf’s Berth No. 25 for a cable-laying and repair project.
According to the FIA spokesperson, the vessel carried 33 crew members, including seven foreign catering workers whose documents required further scrutiny.
The affected workers included:
| Nationality | Number of Workers |
|---|---|
| Nepalese | 4 |
| Bangladeshi | 1 |
| Malawian | 2 |
| Total | 7 |
The workers were employed as cooks, assistant cooks and stewards.
Which Documents Were Missing?
FIA officials reported irregularities involving several maritime documents.
These included seaman books, training certificates, flag endorsements, Certificates of Competency (CoC), Certificates of Proficiency (CoP) and watchkeeping certificates.
Investigators also found that some workers possessed seaman books issued by Burundi, Palau, and Saint Kitts and Nevis.
According to ProPakistani, the workers told investigators they had been hired for catering and hospitality duties rather than professional seafaring roles.
They reportedly stated that the company had provided their documents.
Why Did FIA Fine the Shipping Agency?
The FIA spokesperson said the vessel’s captain acknowledged responsibility for the documentation shortcomings and apologised.
Following the inspection, FIA Immigration issued a Rs. 3.5 million fine notice to Sharaf Shipping.
The shipping agent reportedly assured officials that the amount would be deposited into the national treasury during the current week.
The agency also promised to submit a copy of the payment challan to the immigration office.
What Does This Mean for Maritime Compliance?
The incident highlights the importance of verifying crew documentation before foreign vessels operate in Pakistani ports.
Shipping agencies must ensure that personnel meet applicable immigration and maritime documentation requirements.
However, the specific certification requirements can depend on workers’ duties and the regulations governing a vessel.
The FIA said it would continue monitoring maritime immigration compliance.
As of November 10, payment of the fine had not been independently confirmed.