NCCIA Raids Suspected Foreign-Operated Call Centre in Islamabad’s G-8
Agency says the operation was conducted on intelligence and under authorised warrants; suspected foreign and Pakistani operators were not present during the raid, while seized devices have been sent for forensic examination.
ISLAMABAD: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has raided a suspected foreign-operated call centre in Islamabad’s Sector G-8 as part of an ongoing crackdown against organised cybercrime and allegedly fraudulent call-centre operations.
According to information available to Islamabad Tribune, the operation was conducted on the basis of intelligence after approval and warrants were obtained from the competent authority.
However, the foreign nationals and Pakistani individuals suspected of involvement in cybercrime activities were not present at the premises when the NCCIA team conducted the raid.
Digital Equipment Seized
During the search of the call centre, investigators seized digital devices and other material considered potentially relevant to the investigation.
The confiscated electronic equipment has subsequently been sent for forensic examination.
Investigators are expected to examine the devices to determine the nature of activities allegedly conducted from the premises and identify individuals or networks potentially connected with the operation.
The forensic process could also help authorities establish whether the facility was being used for cyber-enabled fraud, impersonation, illegal online activities or other offences.
Raid Comes Amid Nationwide Crackdown
The action comes amid a broader government push against illegal call centres and cyber-fraud networks.
Separately, Business Recorder reported on August 21 that authorities had decided to launch a countrywide crackdown against illegal call centres, with the NCCIA among the agencies expected to participate in a multi-agency task force.
The development follows a series of recent investigations involving foreign nationals and suspected call-centre operations in Islamabad and other parts of the country.
Forensic Examination to Determine Next Steps
The NCCIA’s official mandate includes cybercrime investigations and digital forensics, including the preservation and examination of electronic evidence.
The agency maintains a dedicated jurisdiction for Islamabad Capital Territory, allowing it to investigate suspected cyber offences within the federal capital.
Officials have indicated that further details regarding the G-8 operation will be made public after the investigation and verification process is completed.
At this stage, allegations concerning the call centre and individuals potentially associated with it remain under investigation. The raid and seizure of equipment do not by themselves establish criminal liability, which would have to be determined through due legal process.
