The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has raided and shut down two illegal call centres in Johar Town and Faisal Town in Lahore, arresting more than 36 suspects allegedly involved in defrauding foreign nationals.
Additional Director NCCIA Lahore Zone Atif Ameer said the call centres targeted citizens of other countries. Preliminary investigations found that the suspects contacted victims on the pretext of offering mobile phone upgrades and other services.
During the raids, officials seized a large number of computers, laptops and mobile phones. Several vehicles allegedly bought with proceeds from the fraud were also impounded.
Investigators will determine the identities and roles of the call centre owners, facilitators and other suspects. Cases have been registered against those arrested under relevant sections of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and the Pakistan Penal Code.