Pakistan’s Ambassador to Turkmenistan, KK Wagan, was denied entry into the United States and deported from Los Angeles in an unusual incident, The News reported on Tuesday, citing diplomatic sources.
A senior official from the Foreign Ministry confirmed the deportation, stating, “Ambassador KK Wagan was deported from the U.S. due to an immigration objection.”
Despite holding a valid U.S. visa and all necessary travel documents, Wagan was reportedly traveling to Los Angeles for a personal visit when U.S. immigration authorities stopped him upon arrival. Officials then forced him to return to his last port of departure, raising concerns about diplomatic protocol and the reasons behind the decision.
Later, Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) confirmed that the envoy was on a private visit. The FO spokesperson stated that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was investigating the matter and urged against speculation.
According to earlier reports, Wagan was flagged by the U.S. immigration system due to “controversial visa references,” leading to his immediate deportation. However, the specific concerns behind this action remain unclear.
A veteran diplomat, Wagan has held several key positions in Pakistan’s foreign service, including postings in Kathmandu, Los Angeles, Muscat, and Niamey. He has also served as Director General for Overseas Pakistanis, Consular Affairs, and Crisis Management at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad.
Given the gravity of the situation, sources suggest Wagan may be recalled to Islamabad to clarify his position.
Pakistan’s top diplomatic leadership, including Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Foreign Secretary Aamna Baloch, has been briefed on the incident. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry has directed its Consulate in Los Angeles to investigate the matter further.
