I have a similar situation with your friend. I received a passport request without receiving my AIP, but I have already given biometrics and medical exam. However, my passport was returned only with a letter saying my SP was approved, no visa inside. Today I received a message saying my application moved to stage 2. I am so confused whether my application has been approved or not.
I don't get one thing. Didn't IRCC Delhi say that they are not sending passport requests in their recent webinar? Then who is actually sending these requests?