Pakistan’s National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency NCCIA has taken action against a coordinated online fraud operation that allegedly targeted political figures and ordinary citizens by impersonating officials and making false claims. The agency has sacked one individual and registered a formal case against several others in connection with the scheme. Investigators said the fraudsters used elaborate methods to convince victims to transfer funds under the pretext of official business.
According to official records, the primary suspect Muhammad Mazhar, son of Muhammad Hanif, approached Members of Provincial Assembly and other political personalities claiming that a visiting United Nations delegation would represent Pakistan Peoples Party. He further alleged that the delegation would be bringing cargo for which taxes needed to be paid, persuading victims to deposit money into accounts controlled by the accused. One complainant reported transferring Rs468,500 after being misled. Additional transactions recorded by investigators include payments of Rs264,500, Rs100,000, and Rs100,000 routed to a Bank Alfalah account under another accused, Muhammad Javed. NCCIA officials indicated that the individuals operated collectively, acting in connivance as a gang.
The Cyber Crime Circle Rawalpindi confirmed that Muhammad Mazhar was sacked following an enquiry and that financial records traced the defrauded amounts to accounts linked to the suspects. Authorities said that repeated notices and summons under Section 160 of the Criminal Procedure Code were sent to the accused through registered post and SMS, but they failed to appear. Investigators stated that sufficient evidence was gathered to warrant the formal registration of the FIR. The case has been filed under Section 14 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act PECA 2016 and Sections 419, 420, and 109 of the Pakistan Penal Code related to impersonation, cheating, and abetment.
Further investigation is being conducted under the supervision of Subinspector Mehboob Elahi. NCCIA emphasized the importance of vigilance against online scams, particularly those exploiting official identities to mislead citizens and public figures. The agency continues to track financial flows and digital communications linked to the accused to uncover the full scope of the operation. Authorities urged the public to verify claims of official business and report suspicious requests to the relevant cybercrime authorities.
This case underscores ongoing challenges in Pakistan’s digital landscape, highlighting the need for stronger awareness and monitoring of cyber threats. By taking coordinated action and leveraging investigative tools, NCCIA aims to prevent similar fraudulent activities while reinforcing the accountability of individuals attempting to exploit electronic platforms for financial gain.
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