Authorities launched a major crackdown in Faisalabad’s Shangla Hill, Shahkot Road, when the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), collaborating with local law enforcement, raided an illegal call center. The operation resulted in the arrest of 149 individuals comprising 78 Pakistanis and 73 foreign nationals from various countries. These suspects were allegedly involved in orchestrating Ponzi schemes and online fraud, targeting victims through deceptive “work-from-home” scams. Investigators have registered seven cases, including charges of fraud and deception, while primary suspect Malik Tahseen Awan remains at large.

This center was reportedly owned by a former chairman of the Faisalabad Electric Supply Company board. During the raid, authorities seized laptops, smartphones, and other digital devices serving as evidence of the scheme. The NCCIA’s decisive action signals intensified efforts to eliminate cyber-enabled financial fraud in Pakistan.

✅ Key Takeaways

  • 149 suspects arrested, including 78 Pakistanis and 73 foreign nationals.
  • Accused of conducting large-scale Ponzi schemes and cyber fraud from a Faisalabad call center.
  • Seven legal cases filed—charges range from deception to financial fraud.
  • Investigation ongoing to locate primary suspect Malik Tahseen Awan.
  • Digital evidence seized to support prosecution.