NCCIA busts international child abuse network, arrests ringleader in Pakistan
International network uncovered
The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) says it has uncovered an international network involved in the sexual exploitation of children. Islamabad Additional Director Mohammad Shoaib Khan shared details of the investigation at a press conference in the capital on Sunday.
Khan alleged that a father was involved in producing and selling abusive videos of his own children, aged between four and five. He said the material was traded through secret Telegram groups, with cryptocurrency used for payments.
Suspects arrested as investigation expands
According to Khan, the investigation also uncovered disturbing material involving animal abuse. He said the alleged network leader, who belonged to Skardu, had been arrested with help from international agencies.
Investigators recovered important evidence and identified links in Islamabad, Multan and South Punjab. Khan said raids were continuing to arrest other people suspected of helping the network.
“Those involved in such heinous crimes will be brought to justice,” he said. The agency said the investigation was continuing to identify everyone involved and gather further evidence.
More child exploitation cases reported
Khan also described another case in which the NCCIA arrested four suspects after examining around 60 videos recovered from a child’s mobile phone. He said the suspects allegedly contacted children aged six to 14 through Instagram, offered them money and used them to create abusive videos.
According to the official, the material was then sold through WhatsApp groups and to buyers abroad. Khan also said two Chinese nationals had previously been convicted in a similar type of crime.
Girl harassed and blackmailed online
In a separate case, a minor girl in Karachi attempted suicide after facing prolonged harassment, according to Khan. She is receiving treatment at a hospital, while the agency has arrested the main suspect in Islamabad.
Khan said investigators traced and arrested the suspect within 13 hours with help from the girl’s family. He alleged that the suspect had harassed and blackmailed her repeatedly over the previous two to three years.
“Providing justice to the affected families is our top priority. Strict implementation of a zero-tolerance policy against those harassing women and children is being ensured,” he said. He urged social media users to act responsibly and warned that people who upload unlawful material would face legal action.
These cases show how online platforms can be misused to exploit and threaten children. The investigations also highlight the need for strong action against offenders and better protection for victims.
Parents and children should report suspicious online contact and threats to the relevant authorities. Quick reporting, careful investigations and support for victims can help prevent further harm.
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