NCCIA crackdown in Punjab, 4 online suspects arrested

The operation was carried out under the special directives of Punjab Director Operations Muhammad Ali Waseem, targeting individuals

LAHORE: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has intensified its campaign against cybercrime across Punjab, arresting, four suspected online blackmailers during coordinated operations in Lahore, Faisalabad, and Multan.

The operation was carried out under the special directives of Punjab Director Operations Muhammad Ali Waseem, targeting individuals accused of online blackmail, social media harassment, identity theft, and the misuse of personal information. According to the agency, the suspects allegedly victimized citizens—particularly women—through fake social media profiles, WhatsApp threats, and the circulation of offensive content to intimidate and extort their targets.

NCCIA spokesperson said the arrested suspects include Rana Hassan Ejaz from Lahore, Asad Abbas and Muhammad Younis from Faisalabad, and Tasawar Abbas from Multan. During the raids, investigators seized mobile phones, SIM cards, and other digital devices believed to contain crucial electronic evidence. The confiscated material has been sent for forensic examination as part of the ongoing investigation.

Preliminary findings indicate that the suspects created fake social media accounts in the names of victims to damage their reputations, sent threatening messages through WhatsApp, shared objectionable content, and attempted to pressure victims into compliance through blackmail. Authorities are also investigating the suspects’ digital networks and possible accomplices to determine the full extent of the alleged cybercrime operation.

Director Operations Muhammad Ali Waseem reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting citizens from online harassment, cyber extortion, and other digital crimes. He emphasized that safeguarding people’s privacy, dignity, and digital security remains the NCCIA’s top priority. He also urged the public to immediately report any incidents of online blackmail, threats, or harassment to the NCCIA so that prompt legal action can be taken against those responsible.