The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has uncovered another alarming case of digital fraud, this time involving a scammer who allegedly targeted politicians and senior government figures by posing as a point of contact for a fake international delegation. The arrest highlights how online impersonation schemes are becoming more sophisticated and how public office holders continue to be prime targets.
Authorities identified the accused as Muhammad Mazhar, who allegedly tricked members of provincial assemblies and other political figures. He claimed a United Nations delegation was visiting and that it would represent the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP).
Mazhar reportedly told his targets that the delegation was bringing cargo, and the victims needed to pay taxes on it. Using this tactic, he convinced multiple individuals to transfer money under the pretense of paying “cargo tax.”
One complainant was further misled into acting as a representative for the delegation. They demanded a payment of Rs 468,500, which was subsequently deposited into Mazhar’s account.
Following the report, the Cyber Crime Circle in Rawalpindi launched an investigation. The team arrested Mazhar, son of Muhammad Hanif, while also naming his accomplice, Muhammad Javed, in the case.
An FIR under Section 201/2025 has been registered, and authorities have initiated legal proceedings under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and Pakistan Penal Code (PPC). SI Mehboob Ilahi is overseeing the ongoing investigation.