The Punjab National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) on Wednesday established a dedicated special cell to expedite the registration, investigation, and resolution of cybercrime cases involving women, children, and girls. Speaking to The Express Tribune, Punjab NCCIA Director (Operations) Muhammad Ali Wasim said the move was aimed at strengthening the agency’s effort to protect vulnerable groups against cybercrimes, including harassment, blackmail and exploitation.
Special Cell Operations and Oversight
The director said that all cybercrime complaints involving women and children would now be processed through the newly established special cell and supervised by the deputy director to ensure immediate investigation, effective case management, and timely legal action. Wasim said that the cybercrime cell had adopted “a zero-tolerance policy” against perpetrators involved in online blackmail, development of fake social media accounts, and unauthorised sharing of private photographs and videos.
Strict Legal Action and Victim Support
He warned of strict legal action against offenders in accordance with the applicable laws. Furthermore, the special cell was also tasked with providing immediate legal assistance, victim support, and protection to ensure victims received timely access to justice and appropriate safeguards throughout the investigative process, the director detailed. Reaffirming the agency’s commitment to combating cybercrime targeting vulnerable individuals, Wasim said, “Cybercrimes against women and minors will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Every victim is encouraged to contact the NCCIA without fear. Every complaint will be acted upon promptly and strictly in accordance with the law.”
Broader Efforts and Resource Allocation
He highlighted that the establishment of the cell reflected the NCCIA's broader efforts to enhance its response to cyber-enabled crimes and improve support mechanisms for victims across Punjab. Wasim further said that six of the 50 people in the department were assigned to the cell to expedite complaint resolution.
Cybercrime Statistics in Punjab
According to the data provided on the agency’s website, out of the 171,600 cases reported to the agency, 21.6% were reported by women. Lahore assumed the lead in the number of digital crime reports, accounting for 18% of the total cases. Financial fraud remained the most reported cybercrime as per statistics available on the agency's web portal.
