Naqvi Visits NCCIA Central Zone, Orders Faster Cybercrime Action

LAHORE: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency’s (NCCIA) Central Zone Headquarters in Lahore and directed officials to accelerate operations against cybercrime, with particular focus on online financial fraud, digital harassment and organized cybercrime networks.

During the visit, Naqvi reviewed ongoing operations and investigations and inspected the complaints cell, forensic laboratory and investigation wing. According to details shared about the visit, the minister examined the process from the registration of citizens’ complaints through investigation and subsequent legal action.

Chairing a special meeting at the headquarters, Naqvi directed the NCCIA to take action against organized groups allegedly involved in online financial fraud, fake accounts, digital blackmail and online harassment. He said individuals involved in cyber offences should be brought within the ambit of law regardless of where they operate.

Minister Seeks Faster Response to Financial Fraud

Naqvi placed particular emphasis on financial fraud complaints, directing officials to strengthen the immediate-response mechanism so relevant institutions can be contacted promptly. He said quicker coordination could improve the chances of protecting affected citizens’ funds and tracing those allegedly responsible.

“Citizens should not have to wait for months after filing a complaint,” Naqvi said, directing officials to ensure visible and timely progress on complaints.

The minister also ordered a case-by-case review of pending complaints and cases, with instructions to eliminate unnecessary delays.

NCCIA Told to Strengthen Digital Forensics

Naqvi called for enhanced digital-forensics capacity, greater use of modern forensic tools and specialized training for investigating officers. He said evolving methods of cybercrime required advanced technology and trained personnel rather than reliance solely on conventional investigative techniques.

He said the government wanted to develop NCCIA into an effective “Cyber Police” capable of using modern technology to protect citizens in the digital environment. The minister also directed officials to give particular attention to complaints involving women and children and to strengthen safeguards for citizens’ data, privacy and financial interests.

Naqvi further called for a more effective public-awareness campaign to inform citizens about emerging methods of online fraud.

The NCCIA director general briefed the minister on the Central Zone’s performance, cases under investigation, cyber-fraud trends and ongoing operations.

The FIA director general, Islamabad Police inspector general, FIA Lahore Zone director and other officials were also present, according to information released about the visit.

The latest directives are consistent with Naqvi’s earlier public emphasis on expanding NCCIA’s technological and operational capabilities. In June, he directed swift resolution of cybercrime complaints while reviewing the agency’s forensic and complaint-handling facilities, while in April he called for a more proactive NCCIA role against cybercrime.