Authorities have expanded an ongoing investigation into alleged international scam networks operating from Pakistan after a recent probe found evidence suggesting that foreign groups based in the country had been targeting individuals across multiple countries, sources revealed on Thursday. The development follows a recent nationwide crackdown in which Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) sacked 284 foreign nationals over alleged online fraud and other unlawful activities. According to reports, after the completion of legal formalities, all 284 foreign nationals were directed last week to leave Pakistan within 15 days, subject to possessing valid travel documents and fulfilling all other required procedures.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the scope of the cybercrime investigation has now been widened to include PTA, Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). Authorities are also seeking information from immigration, passport and visa departments to examine the entry, stay and business activities of the foreign nationals under investigation. The inquiry is focused on understanding the structure of the alleged cybercrime network and determining whether its activities extended beyond Pakistan. Sources said investigators are reviewing documentation and official records to establish how the individuals entered the country, the nature of their operations and whether additional entities or individuals were linked to the suspected network. Officials are also examining financial records and digital infrastructure associated with the case as part of the broader investigation.
Sources also shared details from the statement of an Indonesian national who reportedly entered Pakistan as a chef around three months ago. According to the quoted statement, the individual claimed to be part of a group consisting of nine members, including two Chinese nationals and seven Indonesians. The individual further stated that the group generated around $80,000 each month through its operations and primarily targeted Indonesian women over the age of 40. According to the statement cited by the sources, the group operated from Pakistan while directing its activities toward individuals living abroad. Officials believe these claims require further verification as part of the ongoing investigation. Sources added that investigators have expanded the inquiry beyond Pakistan to identify potential victims and individuals who may have been connected to the wider network operating across different countries.
The investigation is being conducted jointly by FIA, National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) and police authorities, who are examining financial transactions, communication channels and digital systems believed to be associated with the suspected operation. Sources further stated that the federal government has decided to launch a nationwide operation targeting illegal call centres, cyber fraud and explicit online content. Under the plan, a special task force will operate from FIA headquarters and submit daily operational reports to the Interior Ministry. According to the sources, the task force will investigate matters related to extortion, blackmail, gambling and online scams while coordinating with relevant institutions. A list of call centres operating in Karachi has also reportedly been compiled, and all concerned government departments have been directed to extend full cooperation to the task force as authorities continue their investigations into the alleged cybercrime network.
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