NCCIA Arrests Cyber Fraudsters Posing as Senior Police Officers
The National Cyber Crimes Investigation Authority (NCCIA) has arrested two suspects in Pakpattan for impersonating a senior police officer (SSP) and carrying out a calculated online fraud scheme that deprived a citizen of Rs125,000.
Authorities described the arrests as part of an ongoing crackdown against cyber impersonation and digital deception networks operating across Pakistan.
Raid at Bus Terminal Leads to Arrests
According to an NCCIA spokesperson, the suspects were arrested during a targeted raid at the Pakpattan bus terminal.
The accused have been identified as:
- Waqas Ali
- Saadi Ahmed
Investigators said both individuals posed as SSP Sohail Zahir, using the identity of a senior police officer to gain trust and manipulate the victim.
WhatsApp Used as Tool for Deception
The NCCIA revealed that the suspects used WhatsApp to share misleading messages and false authority-based claims, successfully convincing the victim to transfer money.
“By abusing the name and rank of a senior police officer, the accused created fear and credibility to execute the fraud,” the spokesperson said.
The victim was defrauded of Rs125,000, officials confirmed.
Case Registered in Islamabad
Following the arrests, a formal case has been registered at the Cyber Crime Circle Islamabad, and legal proceedings have been initiated under relevant cybercrime laws.
Authorities stressed that impersonating law enforcement officials is a serious criminal offence and will be prosecuted strictly.
Further Investigation Underway
An NCCIA investigation team led by Sub-Inspector Fahad Altaf is currently conducting further inquiries to determine:
- Whether the suspects are linked to a larger cybercrime network
- If additional victims were targeted
- The source of SIMs, accounts, and digital tools used in the scam
Officials said more arrests cannot be ruled out.
NCCIA Issues Warning to Public
The NCCIA urged citizens to remain vigilant and verify the identity of anyone claiming to be a law enforcement official online, especially on messaging platforms.
“Police officers do not demand money via WhatsApp or phone calls,” the authority reiterated.
Why This Matters
Impersonation of police officers not only causes financial losses but also undermines public trust in state institutions. The NCCIA’s action highlights Pakistan’s growing resolve to combat digital fraud and cyber exploitation.