The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) announced on Friday the disruption of an organised network in South Punjab that was trading sensitive personal data of prominent individuals for a few thousand rupees. Syed Khurram Ali, the agency’s director general, revealed that four suspects have been apprehended in connection with the operation.
During a press briefing in Islamabad, Khurram Ali explained that the group was engaged in leaking and selling confidential information related to important figures. Investigations have also uncovered the participation of insiders from various institutions who facilitated access to this data. “We have identified individuals within multiple departments who were supplying information leading to data breaches,” he stated.
Khurram Ali emphasized the agency’s strict zero-tolerance stance on data leaks and the commercial exchange of personal information. He warned that such activities are being dealt with firmly under this policy. Notably, he disclosed that citizens’ personal data was being transferred to foreign intelligence agencies, heightening the severity of the issue.
The inquiry revealed the existence of several gangs involved in leaking sensitive details, including banking and identity-related information. To combat this, a special committee has been established in Karachi in collaboration with the State Bank of Pakistan to address these cases effectively.
The director general further noted that some of those implicated had official access to government databases, and disciplinary measures are underway against government employees connected to the illicit data sales. “The information being traded included data critical to national security and details of key personalities,” he added.
Khurram Ali also stressed the importance of raising awareness about cybercrime to prevent future incidents. Separately, he mentioned that NCCIA’s Lahore office is handling the investigation involving actor Momina Iqbal, assuring that the case would be resolved within days rather than months. Responding to concerns about delays, he clarified, “Action was initiated promptly once she arrived in Lahore.”
He highlighted that the NCCIA currently employs 480 personnel nationwide and is actively engaged in capacity-building initiatives. In recent weeks, the agency has conducted multiple operations, including shutting down a fake call centre in Lahore and arresting individuals involved in online financial fraud.
Earlier in May, NCCIA Punjab detained 13 people during a crackdown on alleged anti-state social media activities. Additionally, last month, a man was arrested in Lahore over purported anti-army posts on social platforms.
