Karachi (HRNW)- The Sessions Court South Karachi has rejected the post-arrest bail application of a foreign national, Anthony Ho Siao Yu Yao, in a case related to alleged illegal purchase and sale of foreign currency.
According to the FIA prosecutor, the accused was arrested by the FIA Commercial Banking Circle from the Clifton area. During the operation, officials recovered over 13,000 US dollars, Iraqi currency, prize bonds, and local cash from his possession.
The defense counsel argued that the accused has been falsely implicated in the case, adding that according to law, possession of up to 10,000 US dollars is permissible. The defense further maintained that mere possession of foreign currency does not constitute a crime.
However, the court observed that lawful justification and proper documentation regarding the source of foreign currency are essential under the law.
The court noted that during inquiry and court proceedings, the accused failed to provide any legal source or supporting documents for the recovered currency.
It was further observed that the FIA had conducted the operation after obtaining a valid search warrant in accordance with legal requirements.
The court stated that offences under the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA) are serious economic crimes that can adversely affect the country’s financial system.
The court also noted that forensic examination of seized electronic devices is still underway and the release of the accused at this stage may affect the ongoing investigation.
After reviewing the evidence and arguments, the court dismissed the bail application of the accused.
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Disclaimer:
This report is based on court proceedings and statements presented by prosecution and defence during the hearing. The allegations remain subject to further investigation and are not a final determination of guilt. HRNW will update the story if any further legal developments or official statements are received.
