NCCIA Rawalpindi Cracks Down on Crypto Scheme Targeting Australians

RAWALPINDI: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) Rawalpindi Circle says it has uncovered an alleged international cyber fraud network operating from a call centre in a private housing society on Chakri Road, taking multiple suspects into custody and seizing digital equipment during the operation.

Call Centre Raided, Digital Equipment Seized

According to an NCCIA spokesperson, the agency raided the premises identified as “Abbasi Call Centre” after information regarding suspected online financial activities being conducted from the location. Multiple individuals were detained during the operation, while computer systems, servers and mobile devices were taken into custody for forensic examination.

The agency alleged that members of the network created fake profiles on Telegram to approach foreign nationals, particularly Australian citizens. Investigators say the operation involved offers linked to purported YouTube tasks and USDT cryptocurrency investments through which victims were allegedly persuaded to transfer money.

NCCIA said cases have been registered against alleged key operators, managers and team leaders connected with the call centre, while further investigation is underway to determine the wider structure of the network, its financial trail and the possible involvement of additional individuals. Reports on the operation said proceedings were initiated under Pakistan’s cybercrime laws and relevant provisions of the Pakistan Penal Code.

The agency has not publicly disclosed in the reports reviewed by Islamabad Tribune the exact number of people detained, the identities of the suspects, the precise amount allegedly obtained from victims, or the number of affected Australian citizens.

Scam Method Resembles Known Online Fraud

The alleged method described by NCCIA closely resembles a recognised form of online “task” and investment deception documented by Australian consumer-protection authorities. Australia’s Scamwatch warns that such schemes can begin with unsolicited contact through platforms including Telegram, followed by offers to complete simple online tasks before users are asked to deposit their own money or cryptocurrency, including USDT.

Scamwatch has separately warned Australian consumers about deceptive cryptocurrency investment platforms promoted through messaging applications and social-media channels. Such operations may display artificial returns or purported profits before seeking additional deposits or charges from users.

The similarity in methods provides broader context to the allegations made by NCCIA but does not independently establish that the Rawalpindi operation was connected with any specific complaints recorded by Australian authorities.

NCCIA Says Investigation Continues

NCCIA Director General Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi said the agency was pursuing a zero-tolerance approach towards cybercrime and described protecting citizens, their assets and their digital security as a key institutional priority.

Rizvi is currently serving as Director General of NCCIA, according to the agency’s official website. NCCIA is empowered under Section 29 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act to inquire into, investigate and prosecute offences covered by the law.

The NCCIA’s official mandate includes cyber investigations, digital forensics and prosecution, with its Rawalpindi jurisdiction covering Rawalpindi, Murree, Talagang, Attock, Chakwal and Jhelum districts.

Further forensic examination of the seized computers, servers and mobile devices is expected to form part of the continuing investigation.

Legal Note: All allegations remain subject to investigation and judicial determination. Detention or registration of a case does not by itself establish guilt.