NCCIA Gains New Powers to Combat Cybercrime Across Pakistan
The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) in Pakistan has been granted enhanced powers under newly issued rules, officials announced. The agency can now freeze properties with the approval of its Director General and seek international assistance during investigations.
Under the new framework, the NCCIA will carry out probes under relevant sections of the Pakistan Penal Code, coordinating closely with provincial authorities and other sensitive institutions across the country. Specialized units will also be set up within the agency to tackle online financial fraud and child abuse.
While investigations can be initiated based on source reports, prior approval from the Director General is mandatory. Additionally, NCCIA personnel will now be required to wear uniforms, and a self-accountability unit has been established to ensure transparency within the agency. The Ministry of Interior has officially notified the NCCIA to implement these rules immediately nationwide.
Multan Cybercrime Network Busted
The announcement comes shortly after the NCCIA uncovered a sophisticated cybercrime network operating out of Multan. The gang allegedly defrauded both Pakistani and international citizens through elaborate social media scams.
Authorities confirmed that the main suspect, identified as Arsalan from Dunyapur, Multan, has been arrested. Investigations revealed that the group used platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook to lure victims with fake game shows, marriage proposals, and foreign aid schemes.
The gang reportedly extracted millions of rupees by showing victims fabricated videos of foreign currency and promising financial support in return for “tax” payments. They also created fake profiles on matrimonial sites to gain victims’ trust before executing the fraud.
With these new rules and recent arrests, the NCCIA is poised to strengthen its efforts against cybercrime, aiming to protect citizens from increasingly sophisticated online scams.
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