National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency has registered two separate cases against 206 suspects following coordinated raids on illegal call centers in Islamabad that authorities say were allegedly involved in organized online fraud, including a large scale dating application scam. According to NCCIA, the operation targeted multiple locations in the federal capital and resulted in the detention of 206 individuals, including 12 foreign nationals. Officials stated that the action forms part of ongoing efforts to disrupt cyber enabled financial crime and networks that allegedly use digital platforms to target victims. The investigation remains active as authorities continue examining the seized evidence and the wider connections of those believed to be involved in the operation.
According to details shared by NCCIA, one of the primary locations operated from Sector G 10, where authorities said the suspects were allegedly conducting cyber related activities while presenting the facility as a legitimate information technology business. Investigators believe this business structure was used to support operations linked to online financial deception. During the raid, officials also found a significant number of women working at the premises. Authorities stated that the suspected network allegedly approached individuals through online dating applications before establishing regular communication with them over time. Once trust had been developed, victims were reportedly encouraged to participate in various online activities before being introduced to investment opportunities that promised financial returns. Investigators further indicated that the operation was also allegedly associated with activities presented as loan recovery services, online trading opportunities and investment related platforms.
NCCIA stated that officers recovered computers, electronic devices and other digital material believed to be connected to the suspected activities during the raids. Authorities said this digital evidence will be examined as part of the ongoing investigation to determine the scale of the network and identify any additional individuals who may have been involved. Officials added that cyber enabled financial schemes continue to evolve through the use of communication platforms and digital applications, making digital forensic analysis an important part of modern law enforcement investigations. The agency noted that evidence collected during the operation is expected to assist investigators in understanding how the alleged network functioned and whether it maintained links with individuals or groups operating beyond the locations that were searched.
According to NCCIA, the suspects have been booked under Section 14 of Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016, along with Sections 419, 420, 34 and 109 of Pakistan Penal Code. Authorities emphasized that the investigation is continuing and that further inquiries will determine the full extent of the alleged activities. The operation reflects ongoing efforts by Pakistani law enforcement agencies to address cyber enabled financial crime, particularly schemes that allegedly exploit online communication channels to gain public trust before encouraging financial transactions. Officials have indicated that additional investigative steps will be taken as digital evidence is analyzed and relevant legal procedures continue in accordance with applicable laws.
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