Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has raised concerns over the shortage of staff at National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), stating that limited resources are affecting the agency’s ability to manage the growing number of cybercrime cases. Speaking to journalists at NCCIA Lahore headquarters, Naqvi said thousands of complaints are being reported and some cases require immediate attention rather than extended investigation timelines. He added that he would present the issue of insufficient personnel to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and seek support to strengthen the agency’s operational capacity.
Naqvi highlighted that NCCIA is facing significant pressure due to a shortage of investigators responsible for handling cybercrime complaints. He questioned how an investigating officer could effectively manage thousands of cases at the same time, noting that some officers are assigned between 3,000 and 4,000 cases. These investigations involve different forms of digital crime, including financial fraud cases where reported losses range from Rs10,000 to millions of rupees. The minister said the increasing volume of complaints requires stronger institutional support, additional resources and improved mechanisms to ensure cases are handled efficiently. He emphasized that certain cybercrime matters, especially those involving sensitive situations, require decisions within days rather than weeks or months.
According to Naqvi, Punjab has a population of around 140 million people, while NCCIA currently has only 61 officers working across the province. He said the government is considering steps to improve the agency’s capacity and is also working with international partners to address cybercrime related matters. The minister noted that Pakistan continues to maintain communication with foreign governments, embassies and relevant authorities as part of efforts to address cases involving digital crimes that may involve individuals operating across borders. Strengthening cooperation with international stakeholders remains an important part of improving the country’s response to evolving cybercrime challenges.
The interior minister also stressed the importance of public awareness campaigns, particularly for protecting women and girls from online harassment and blackmail. He advised citizens, especially young women, to remain cautious while sharing personal photographs and other private information online. Naqvi said authorities have received several complaints where individuals shared personal content that was later misused for blackmail. He identified cases involving girls facing online blackmail as among the frequently reported complaints handled by investigators. The minister emphasized that awareness, responsible online behavior and stronger institutional capabilities are necessary to reduce cybercrime risks. By improving NCCIA resources, expanding awareness initiatives and strengthening cooperation with relevant organizations, the government aims to enhance the country’s ability to respond to increasing digital crime challenges.
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