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ISLAMABAD:
The growing threat of online fraud took center stage in the National Assembly on Friday when President Sardar Ayaz Sadiq revealed that his voice had been impersonated to fraudulently solicit money from citizens, prompting assurances from the government that measures and legislation were being taken to counter organized digital crime.
The session, chaired by Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, also saw the suspension of several legislators for failing to file asset declarations and a packed legislative agenda, along with moments of levity in the House.
During the session, lawmakers discussed online fraud, legislation, privatization of PIA, parliamentary conduct and various civic issues.
While the debate on online fraud was going on, Speaker Ayaz Sadiq informed the House that his voice had been fraudulently cloned and used to solicit money from citizens. He said a person, acting in trust, had called to verify the request, following which the matter was referred to the relevant standing committee.
Minister of State for Home Affairs Talal Chaudhry said the activity was part of an organized mafia involved in blackmailing citizens, adding that “account rental” arrangements were being used to facilitate fraud.
He told the House that the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) had 523 personnel and 23 police stations, and that while the agency’s performance was improving, it would take time to achieve significant results.
Meanwhile, legislative matters continued during the session and questions were also raised on the legal status of the privatization of PIA.
Responding to concerns, the federal Finance Minister told the House that the privatization process had been completed in accordance with all legal requirements and that the auction had been carried out in a fully transparent manner.
He said 75 per cent shares worth Rs 135 billion had been sold, of which Rs 10 billion would go to the government, while Rs 125 billion would be reinvested in PIA.
During the session, the Speaker announced the suspension of 32 members for failure to submit mandatory statements, making it clear that the suspended members could not sit in the House and ordering members present to leave the chamber.
The session also saw more light-hearted moments when the speaker praised the preparation of State Minister Talal Chaudhry, prompting Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar to jokingly suggest that a statue be made of him, sparking laughter across the House.
Subsequently, the NA session was adjourned until 5 pm on Monday.
