Cybercrime crackdown efforts in Pakistan gained momentum this week as the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) carried out a series of major raids in Punjab. With help from the NCCIA Lahore, PTA’s Zonal Office in Lahore acted against illegal SIM networks operating in Multan, Kot Momin, and Hasilpur.
These operations come amid rising concerns over growing cybercrime in the country. Illegal SIMs are often linked to financial fraud, blackmail, and other online crimes. Criminals use fake identities to activate SIMs and carry out scams without being traced.
Cybercrime crackdown needs public support
During the raid in Multan, officials found a large illegal setup using thousands of active SIMs from all mobile networks. Although the equipment was seized, the suspect fled. Follow up investigations led to Kot Momin, where three people, including a franchise owner, were arrested.
Another arrest was made in Hasilpur. A suspect there was supplying fingerprints to issue fake SIMs and distributing activated SIMs to criminals. The key mastermind, who had ties to multiple mobile franchises, was also taken into custody.
Authorities recovered nearly 16,000 SIMs, several biometric devices, and large gateway systems used to run the illegal network.
Pakistan has seen a surge in cybercrimes over the past few years. The government has responded by improving digital surveillance and enforcing stricter rules on SIM issuance. The PTA’s recent actions are part of a broader strategy to clean up digital platforms and protect citizens from online threats.
The public is urged to help in this effort. People can report any suspicious SIM activity by calling PTA at 0800-55055 or visiting complaint.pta.gov.pk.
Officials say this is only the beginning of a stronger push to tackle cybercrime networks across the country. With continued enforcement and public cooperation, Pakistan hopes to build a safer digital space for all.
Read more: Petrol price jumps by over Rs5 per litre
