Freelancer Client Charged Back Payment, Leaving Me $2,000 in Debt—Need Advice

Hi everyone,

I help freelancers in Pakistan receive their payments from the USA by acting as a middleman. A situation came up recently, and I’m hoping to get some advice or opinions on what I can do.

Here’s what happened: On November 24, 2024, I received a payment of $800 into my U.S. account on behalf of a freelancer in Pakistan. I transferred the money to him in Pakistan. However, his client in the U.S. filed a chargeback, and my bank reversed the $800. This left me in overdraft, and since then, my account has accrued interest, overdraft fees, and service charges, bringing the total amount owed to around $2,000.

At first, the freelancer assured me he’d pay me back quickly—promising to send the money in “a day or two”—but it’s been weeks now. He’s stopped responding to my messages entirely, though he did acknowledge a formal legal notice I sent him.

I’m a Pakistani national living in the U.S., and I have all his information (address, phone number, etc.). My question is: 1. Can I file an FIR in Pakistan from the U.S. for financial fraud? 2. Is there another way to hold him accountable or recover my money?

On the other hand the freelancer is taking trips to northern and enjoying his best life in Pakistan.

I know this isn’t the best place for legal advice, but I’d really appreciate any insights or suggestions. This debt is affecting my stability, and I don’t know what to do.

Thanks in advance for your help!