To ensure that investigations are conducted by qualified personnel, the FIA Act stipulates that a member of the Agency not below the rank of Sub-Inspector shall be deemed to be an officer-in-charge of a police station for the purposes of any inquiry or investigation under the Code of Criminal Procedure.
332
What is the mandatory procedure for the Federal Government to amend the schedule of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Act?
The Federal Government is required to follow a formal legal process to amend the schedule of the FIA Act. This process necessitates the issuance of a notification in the Official Gazette to ensure transparency and public notice. This requirement ensures that any changes to the scope of the agency's jurisdiction or the list of scheduled offences are documented and legally enforceable.
The acronym 'FIA' stands for the Federal Investigation Agency. The FIA Act, 1974, is the primary legislation that established this agency to investigate federal crimes in Pakistan. The name reflects the agency's core mandate, which is to conduct thorough and professional investigations into matters of federal concern, including financial crimes, immigration offenses, and other criminal activities that fall under the jurisdiction of the federal government as defined by the Constitution and relevant statutes.
334
What is the total number of Directors assigned to assist the Director General of the FIA?
The administrative hierarchy of the Federal Investigation Agency includes a specific number of Directors who manage different zones and specialized wings. There are currently 10 Directors tasked with assisting the Director General in the effective execution of the agency's mandate across Pakistan.
335
What is the legal status of the Pakistan Special Police Establishment Ordinance 1948 following the enactment of the FIA Act?
The enactment of the Federal Investigation Agency Act, 1974, resulted in the repeal of the Pakistan Special Police Establishment Ordinance, 1948. This was a necessary legislative step to consolidate federal investigative powers under a single, modern agency. By repealing the older ordinance, the FIA Act established a unified legal framework for federal investigations, effectively replacing the previous structure and ensuring that all investigative activities are conducted under the authority and jurisdiction of the newly formed FIA.
336
Which section of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Act, 1974, defines the powers of the agency's members?
Section 5 of the FIA Act, 1974, specifically outlines the powers of the members of the Agency. It grants them the same powers, duties, privileges, and liabilities as police officers of the respective ranks when acting in the discharge of their official functions under the Act.
337
Which specific enactment is referred to as the 'Code' within the context of the Federal Investigation Agency Act, 1974?
The definition clause of the Federal Investigation Agency Act, 1974, defines the term 'Code' as the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898 (Act V of 1898). This is the primary procedural law governing criminal investigations and trials in Pakistan, which the FIA must adhere to during its operations.
338
Which section of the FIA Act outlines the provisions regarding the superintendence and administration of the Agency?
Section 4 of the Federal Investigation Agency Act, 1974, explicitly deals with the superintendence and administration of the Agency. It establishes that the administration of the Agency vests in the Director General, who exercises these powers under the supervision and control of the Federal Government. This section is fundamental to the governance structure of the FIA, ensuring clear lines of authority and accountability.
339
In which year was the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) established?
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) was established in 1974 under the Federal Investigation Agency Act, 1974. It was created to serve as the premier federal law enforcement agency in Pakistan, tasked with investigating crimes related to immigration, cybercrime, human trafficking, and federal corruption.
340
Under which section of the Federal Investigation Agency Act, 1974, is the 'Agency' formally constituted?
Section 3 of the Federal Investigation Agency Act, 1974, explicitly provides for the constitution of the Agency. It states that the Federal Government shall constitute a force to be called the Federal Investigation Agency for the purpose of inquiry into and investigation of offences specified in the schedule of the Act.