The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) Lahore cracked down on a major criminal operation yesterday. NCCIA Lahore officials arrested suspects running an organised cyber fraud network that allegedly used dummies of real-looking bank Point-of-Sale (POS) devices. Furthermore, this network actively targeted both local and foreign citizens.
The suspects used a highly coordinated method to steal money. Specifically, they committed fraud through the unauthorized use of credit and debit card information. Afterward, the criminals executed the theft by processing fraudulent transactions. According to NCCIA, the cyber fraud network heavily relied on fake Point-of-Sale (POS) machines to clear these illegal payments, which were actually dummies.
During the targeted raid, NCCIA officials confiscated crucial hardware from the suspects. The recovery included two mobile phones, one laptop, and five dummy POS devices.
Consequently, authorities formally registered a First Information Report (FIR) against the arrested individuals. The agency filed these charges under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, which officially incorporates the recent 2025 amendments. Additionally, the FIR includes relevant provisions from the Pakistan Penal Code. Further investigation into the broader network is currently underway.
Authorities are taking a strict and uncompromising stance on the matter. NCCIA Director General Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi issued a clear warning following the arrests. He stated that the agency will not give any concessions to individuals involved in cyber fraud. Finally, he affirmed that protecting the lives and property of the public remains the absolute top priority for the NCCIA.
