In an unexpected twist, a senior Pakistani diplomat was barred from entering the United States and swiftly deported upon landing in Los Angeles, despite carrying a valid visa and all required travel papers, according to The News, a Pakistani publication.
KK Wagan, Pakistan’s ambassador to Turkmenistan, arrived in Los Angeles for a personal trip when U.S. immigration officials intervened. The seasoned envoy was stopped at the airport and sent back to his departure point, raising eyebrows over diplomatic norms.
A Pakistani Foreign Ministry official, speaking anonymously, told The News that Wagan faced an unspecified “immigration objection.” Diplomatic sources cited by the report pointed to “controversial visa references” flagged by U.S. authorities, though no clear explanation has emerged.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office, via GeoTV, confirmed Wagan was traveling privately and said a full investigation is underway. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and senior officials have been briefed, with indications that Wagan may be recalled to Islamabad to clarify the incident.
The deportation comes as whispers grow of a potential U.S. travel ban targeting Pakistan under President Donald Trump, which could soon restrict Pakistani nationals from entering the country. The timing has fueled speculation, though no direct link has been confirmed.