The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) Lahore Zone has arrested 26 people in two separate operations targeting alleged cyber fraud and honey-trap activities, officials said.
According to an NCCIA spokesperson, 17 women were arrested in the first operation over their alleged involvement in a call centre where men were reportedly contacted through online platforms and targeted for financial gains.
17 Women Held in Honey-Trap Case
Officials said the women allegedly used various online channels to establish contact with men and persuade them to provide online gifts and other financial benefits.
During the operation, investigators arrested 17 women and recovered 35 mobile phones and two laptops from their possession.
A case has been registered in connection with the operation, while further investigation is underway.
Nine Men Arrested Over Alleged Overseas Call Centre Fraud
In a separate operation, the NCCIA raided a call centre in Lahore’s Allama Iqbal Town, where workers were allegedly defrauding UK citizens by offering mobile phone replacement services and other communication packages.
According to investigators, call centre employees contacted overseas customers and offered them mobile phones and various packages. Customers were reportedly assured that the phones would be delivered after they deposited money.
Officials alleged that after receiving payments, the operators failed to provide the promised mobile phones.
Nine men were arrested during the operation, while investigators recovered 10 mobile phones and five laptops.
A separate case has also been registered against the suspects.
Investigation Underway
The investigation into both cases is being conducted under the supervision of NCCIA Lahore Zone Additional Director Atif Ameer.
Officials said the arrested suspects are being questioned and that the recovered mobile phones and laptops are being examined for further evidence.
The agency is expected to determine the full scope of the alleged operations and identify whether additional individuals were involved.