Pakistan launches nationwide crackdown on illegal call centres
The federal government has decided to launch a nationwide crackdown on illegal call centres following reports that foreign nationals were allegedly operating networks involved in cyber fraud and obscene content.
Officials have decided to establish a special task force at the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) headquarters to coordinate action against illegal call centres across the country.
FIA task force to coordinate operations
According to sources, the new task force will investigate allegations involving extortion, blackmail, gambling and online scams. The move aims to bring different institutions together and improve coordination during operations against illegal call centre networks.
Officials have directed relevant departments to provide full cooperation to the task force. Details of operations conducted against call centres will also be submitted to the Ministry of Interior on a daily basis, according to officials.
Karachi call centres included in crackdown
Authorities have already prepared a list of call centres operating in Karachi as part of the planned nationwide action. The list is expected to help authorities identify centres that may require investigation or further scrutiny.
Officials have instructed relevant institutions to cooperate with the task force during inspections and operations. The action is expected to cover illegal networks operating in different cities rather than focusing on a single location.
Action follows Islamabad raid
The government’s decision comes days after authorities arrested 284 foreign nationals during a raid on an illegal call centre in Islamabad. The arrests have increased attention on call centre operations and allegations of organised cybercrime.
Authorities are now seeking to determine whether similar networks are operating in other parts of the country. The nationwide operation is intended to identify and dismantle networks allegedly involved in cyber fraud and other unlawful activities.
Cyber fraud networks under scrutiny
Illegal call centres can be used for a range of online crimes, including scams targeting people through phone calls and digital platforms. Authorities are also investigating allegations of extortion, blackmail and gambling linked to some of the networks under scrutiny.
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The government’s decision indicates that enforcement agencies want to take a broader approach to tackling such activities. The special task force is expected to improve the flow of information between agencies involved in the crackdown.
Daily reporting ordered
Officials have directed that details of operations against illegal call centres be shared with the Ministry of Interior on a daily basis. The reporting mechanism is expected to allow the government to monitor progress and track action taken in different areas.
It could also help authorities identify patterns between separate investigations and operations. The effectiveness of the mechanism will depend on coordination between the FIA and other relevant institutions.
Nationwide operation could expand
The crackdown is expected to cover illegal call centres across Pakistan. Authorities are likely to focus on centres operating without required approvals or those suspected of facilitating cybercrime and other unlawful activities.
The operation could also lead to further investigations if authorities identify links between different call centre networks. Officials have not provided a detailed timeline for completing the nationwide operation.
