punjab cybercrime crackdown
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Punjab cybercrime crackdown, 28 suspects arrested

ByJustpaste.in

LAHORE: Authorities have arrested 28 suspects in Lahore, Faisalabad and Multan as part of a major crackdown on organised online fraud, exposing alleged schemes that relied on impersonation, fake investment opportunities and fabricated official identities to deceive citizens.

The arrests were made during a province-wide operation by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) Punjab, directed by Punjab Director Muhammad Ali Wasim, officials said. Investigators also seized 24 mobile phones and a laptop, which are now being examined for evidence that could lead to other members of the alleged network.

The investigation has revealed how fraudsters allegedly manipulated trust to convince victims to hand over large sums of money.

Millions allegedly lost in Lahore scam

In Lahore, 18 suspects were arrested in separate operations. Investigators said the suspects allegedly impersonated relatives, visa agents, government officials and personnel associated with the Punjab Safe Cities Authority.

In one case, suspects allegedly posed as both a relative and a visa agent and persuaded a victim to transfer Rs25.86 million.

The case has highlighted how scammers can combine apparently familiar identities with urgent requests to make their schemes appear legitimate.

Rs54.66m trading fraud uncovered

Three suspects were arrested in Faisalabad in connection with alleged online trading fraud and unauthorised access to a company email account.

According to investigators, a victim was shown fabricated trading records, digital-wallet balances and purported profit statements to create the impression that substantial returns were being generated.

After being persuaded to invest, the victim allegedly lost Rs54.66 million, investigators said.

The case demonstrates the growing sophistication of investment scams, where criminals allegedly use manipulated digital information to make fraudulent platforms appear genuine.

Multan arrests expose impersonation tactics

In Multan, seven suspects were arrested for allegedly posing as relatives, bank employees and individuals claiming to be based in Britain.

Officials said victims were approached with various demands, including payments supposedly required for prize money, customs clearance, taxes and visa renewals.

Such tactics typically create a sense of urgency, leaving victims with little time to verify the identity of the caller or the authenticity of the demand.

Digital evidence now under forensic examination

NCCIA investigators are examining the seized devices through forensic analysis. Financial transactions, call records and digital communications are also being reviewed to establish the full extent of the alleged operation and identify other people who may be connected to it.

The crackdown comes amid growing concern over online financial fraud in Pakistan. The NCCIA’s own statistics identify financial fraud as a major category of reported cybercrime.

The latest arrests underscore a simple but increasingly important warning: an apparently familiar voice, official-looking message or promising investment opportunity may not be what it seems.

Authorities are expected to continue the investigation as they trace the alleged network and follow the digital and financial trails left behind.

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    Pakistan, Kazakhstan agree to accelerate trade and agricultural cooperation

    ByJustpaste.in

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    Destructive earthquake hits Western Colombia

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    ByJustpaste.in

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    Duke goes missing, Rs250,000 reward announced

    ByJustpaste.in

    The pet dog of former Pakistan cricket captain and legendary all-rounder Wasim Akram has reportedly gone missing in Karachi. Wasim Akram and his wife, Shaniera Akram, have appealed to the public for help in finding their missing dog. According to a post shared on their official Instagram account, the dog is named Duke. It is a five-month-old black German Shepherd with a long coat. Duke was last seen in DHA Phase 8 in Karachi. The family is now making efforts to locate and bring the pet safely back home. A reward of Rs250,000 has been announced for anyone who helps recover Duke. The reward will also be given to a person who provides reliable information that leads to the dog’s recovery. The announcement has prompted an appeal to residents of DHA Phase 8 and surrounding areas. The family has asked people to remain alert and report any information about the dog. Residents have also been requested to check areas where the dog may have gone. These include nearby parks, gardens and streets. People have also been urged to look around rooftops and garages. Security guards and other local residents have been specifically asked to assist in the search. The family hopes that public cooperation will help locate Duke quickly. They have asked anyone who spots the dog to provide accurate information rather than sharing unverified reports. The disappearance has also drawn attention from fans and followers of the former Pakistan captain. Wasim Akram remains one of Pakistan’s most recognised cricket personalities. The search is currently focused on DHA Phase 8 and nearby areas. The family is relying on residents and local communities to help trace the missing pet. The Rs250,000 reward is intended to encourage people to come forward with useful information. The owners have stressed the importance of reliable information that can help bring Duke home safely. The family is continuing its efforts to locate the dog. They are also seeking support from residents, security personnel and people familiar with the area.

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