AsiaNet-Pakistan Premier Editorial Content and Press Release Distribution Service
Islamabad, In a concerted effort to clamp down on the illegal issuance of SIM cards, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Zonal Office Faisalabad, in partnership with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cyber Crime Circle, conducted a successful operation in Sahiwal against a franchisee of a mobile phone company. The raid targeted the franchisee’s illicit activities, including the use of SIMs for grey trafficking and fraudulent operations.
According to Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, the enforcement action led to the seizure of 146 suspicious SIM cards and five Biometric Verification System (BVS) devices, in addition to one laptop utilized for the unauthorized activation of SIMs. The operation also resulted in the apprehension of two individuals found engaging in these illegal activities on-site, leading to the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against them. The FIA has since initiated a comprehensive investigation to further delve into the matter and identify any additional culprits or networks involved.
The initiative was sparked by a complaint lodged by the PTA with the FIA, highlighting concerns over the unlawful distribution of SIMs by the implicated sales channel. This raid underscores the authority’s commitment to eliminating the menace of illegal SIM issuance, a practice that poses significant security risks and facilitates a range of illicit activities.
The collaboration between PTA and FIA in this crackdown reflects the agencies’ resolve to enforce telecommunications regulations strictly and protect the public from fraudulent schemes and cyber crimes associated with unauthorized SIM usage.