Man Loses $850,000 in Alleged Crypto Theft at Karachi Airport, Court Orders Inquiry

A shocking case of digital asset theft has surfaced in Karachi, where a man claims he lost $850,000 worth of cryptocurrency after being stopped and robbed by two men at Karachi Airport. The District and Sessions Court in Malir has now ordered a formal inquiry into the matter.

The case underscores growing concerns over digital financial security and airport safety in Pakistan, as incidents involving crypto-related theft and hacking continue to rise. Despite the lack of clear crypto regulations, Pakistan remains one of the top countries in digital currency adoption  making such crimes a growing risk.

According to the petitioner, the incident occurred on September 30, when he was traveling to Peshawar. He alleged that two men in plain clothes stopped him, took him to a separate room, confiscated his mobile phone, and transferred $850,000 in cryptocurrency from his account.

The man further stated that authorities had failed to register an FIR (First Information Report) following the incident. The Malir court has since directed the SSP Malir to conduct a thorough investigation under the supervision of an officer of DSP rank.

During the proceedings, police submitted a report and USB evidence to the court. The complainant urged protection and transparency, claiming that he was targeted by organized individuals.

A senior cybercrime investigator commented:

“The theft highlights how financial crimes are evolving  physical thefts are now merging with digital fraud, demanding better training for law enforcement.”

The incident has raised serious questions about airport security protocols and the protection of digital assets in Pakistan. Experts are calling for enhanced cyber awareness among travelers and stronger digital forensics capacity within law enforcement agencies.