Pakistan faces a severe surge in digital crime. Recently, authorities launched massive crackdowns across Islamabad. Law enforcement agencies successfully dismantled multiple international cybercrime syndicates. Specifically, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) arrested 648 foreign nationals in 2026. These criminals systematically exploited tourist visas to establish illegal digital hubs in Pakistan. They orchestrated massive scams involving AI deepfakes, investment fraud, and sexual extortion.
Sparco Plaza Turned into a Cybercrime Sub-Jail
The largest joint operation took place at Sparco Plaza in Gulberg Greens. Authorities raided the commercial IT plaza and apprehended 372 foreign nationals. The sheer volume of arrests forced officials to declare the building a temporary sub-jail.
Initially, the FIA Anti-Human Trafficking Circle arrested 258 individuals. This group primarily included citizens of Vietnam, Indonesia, and China. They operated massive illegal call centers to run fraudulent investment schemes. Furthermore, they catfished locals using fake female profiles. Consequently, authorities registered FIR 581/2026 under Section 14 of the Foreigners Act. The Interior Ministry immediately revoked their visas and issued a strict 15-day deportation order.
Deepfake Extortion, Fake Fronts & The Aofu Group Takedown
Simultaneously, the NCCIA conducted a parallel raid inside the same Sparco Plaza. Agents arrested 114 foreigners, including 111 Chinese and three Vietnamese nationals, alongside their local Pakistani handlers. This specific syndicate ran a sophisticated digital extortion ring. They used a fake SECP-registered import and export company as a front. Ultimately, they generated and distributed AI deepfake pornography of high-profile individuals for financial gain. Authorities charged them under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).
In a separate incident, the NCCIA raided an illegal call center in Sector I-10/3. The facility operated under the name “Aofu Group”. During this operation, agents arrested 276 foreign nationals from countries including Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, China, and Myanmar. The syndicate engaged in online sexual solicitation, impersonation, and organized cyber fraud. Officials seized all digital infrastructure on-site and registered FIR 136/2026.
These operations highlight a rapidly growing, industrialized cybercrime threat in Pakistan. International criminal groups continue to misuse tourist visas to set up shell tech companies. However, law enforcement remains actively committed to dismantling these digital extortion and fraud rings.
