The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has arrested 36 suspects during raids on alleged illegal call centres in Lahore accused of defrauding foreign nationals, according to officials.
An NCCIA spokesperson said the operations were conducted in Faisal Town and Johar Town, where suspects allegedly used specialised dialling software to target people abroad.
During the raids, investigators seized a large number of computers, laptops and mobile phones. Officials said the devices contained software and data allegedly linked to fraudulent activities.
According to the agency, information obtained during the first raid led investigators to a second suspected illegal call centre. NCCIA personnel completed the operation despite resistance from security staff at the location.
Authorities also seized several vehicles allegedly purchased using proceeds from the suspected fraud.
The NCCIA said digital evidence recovered during the raids was secured and sealed in accordance with legal procedures. It described the operation as part of efforts to protect Pakistan’s digital and financial reputation from cybercrime networks targeting people overseas.
The Lahore raids follow a similar operation in Rawalpindi last week, where the NCCIA arrested 61 suspects at an alleged illegal call centre in Satellite Town.
Those suspects were accused of obtaining money from foreign nationals by threatening them under the guise of loan recovery.
Officials said 71 mobile phones and 155 laptops were seized during the Rawalpindi operation.