Pakistan’s National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has introduced an AI-powered investigative system to strengthen the country’s fight against online child sexual exploitation and abuse.
The system, called Katalyst, was developed through cooperation between the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control and the UK-Pakistan Serious Crime and Law Enforcement Program. The initiative is funded by the British High Commission and was formally unveiled in Islamabad.
The launch event was attended by Minister of State for Interior and Narcotics Control Talal Chaudhry, British High Commissioner Jane Marriott, and NCCIA Director General Syed Khurram Ali.
Also Read: Bhati Chowk incident sparks crackdown as Maryam Nawaz orders arrests
Talal Chaudhry said protecting children from online exploitation is a “national responsibility”. He said the use of artificial intelligence shows Pakistan’s resolve to modernize law enforcement and ensure criminals are brought to justice.
He added that the government is committed to strengthening NCCIA, stressing that policies and institutions must evolve alongside fast-changing technology.
National Commission on the Rights of the Child Chairperson Ayesha Raza Farooq called for a “whole-of-government” approach. She highlighted efforts involving social media platforms, public awareness campaigns, and work towards a national policy against online child abuse.
NCCIA Director General Syed Khurram Ali said child protection is a top priority for the agency. He explained that AI will greatly expand NCCIA’s capacity to review referrals from the US-based National Centre for Missing & Exploited Children, increasing monthly reviews from about 1,200 to over 100,000.
Also Read: Security forces kill 41 Indian-backed terrorists in Balochistan
British High Commissioner Jane Marriott described online child abuse as a global issue that crosses borders. She said child protection is a key UK priority and noted that Katalyst shows how AI can be “used for good”.
She added that the UK will continue close cooperation with Pakistan to disrupt criminal networks and make the online world safer for children.
