KARACHI: Police have recovered two cryptocurrency mining machines from the residence of Armaghan, the prime suspect in the Mustafa Amir abduction and murder case, during a raid in Karachi’s Defence Housing Authority (DHA).
Crypto-Fueled Fraud and Money Laundering
Investigators revealed that Armaghan transferred earnings from his illegal call center to his cousin in the United States, who then deposited the funds into Armaghan’s crypto wallet. The suspect allegedly converted millions of dollars into digital currency since 2017, using funds obtained through fraud and scams.
Authorities suspect that:
- The illegally obtained money was transferred to merchant accounts operated by Armaghan.
- The funds were converted into cryptocurrency and transferred to digital ATMs, making it difficult to trace.
- The suspect had also created virtual cards using digital currency, allowing him to withdraw funds from ATMs.
Gunfight and Murder Investigation
Armaghan came under police scrutiny after he opened fire on the Anti-Violent Crime Cell (AVCC) during a raid at his DHA residence earlier this month. The investigation gained traction when the body of Mustafa Amir—found near the Hub checkpost on January 12—was later exhumed and identified through DNA testing.
Court Extends Suspect’s Remand
On Thursday, an anti-terrorism court (ATC) extended Armaghan’s physical remand by five days, along with co-accused Shiraz Bukhari. The prosecution stated that:
- A female victim, allegedly tortured by the suspect, has been located and her statement needs to be recorded.
- Witness statements under Section 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) will also be documented.
- The case has sparked nationwide concern, and authorities are probing potential links to money laundering and drug trafficking.
Defense and Court Response
Armaghan’s lawyer opposed the remand extension, claiming his client was denied food and restroom access for ten days. The court dismissed these claims, calling them unrealistic.
Meanwhile, a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) has been formed to probe the high-profile case, with Crime Investigation Agency (CIA) DIG Muqaddas Haider leading the inquiry.
Following deliberations, the court permitted Armaghan’s parents to meet him, warning that any disruptions should be reported immediately.
