About 22% of the 171,600 cases reported to the agency were reported by women, NCCIA data reveals.
The Punjab National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) on Wednesday set up a special cell dedicated to expediting registration, investigation and resolution of cyber crime cases involving women, children and girls.
talking to The express PAkGazettePunjab NCCIA Director (Operations) Muhammad Ali Wasim said the move was aimed at strengthening the agency’s effort to protect vulnerable groups against cybercrimes, including harassment, blackmail and exploitation.
The director said that all complaints of cyber crimes involving women and children will now be processed through the newly created special cell and supervised by the deputy director to ensure prompt investigation, effective case management and timely legal action.
Wasim said the cybercrime cell had adopted “a zero-tolerance policy” against perpetrators involved in online blackmail, development of fake social media accounts and unauthorized sharing of private photographs and videos.
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He warned of strict legal action against violators in accordance with applicable laws.
In addition, the special cell was also tasked with providing immediate legal assistance, victim support and protection to ensure that victims received timely access to justice and adequate safeguards throughout the investigation process, the director detailed.
Reaffirming the agency’s commitment to combating cybercrime targeting vulnerable people, Wasim said: “Cybercrimes against women and minors will not be tolerated under any circumstances.”
“All victims are encouraged to contact the NCCIA without fear. Each complaint will be dealt with promptly and strictly in accordance with the law.”
He highlighted that the establishment of the cell reflects the NCCIA’s broader efforts to enhance its response to cybercrimes and enhance victim support mechanisms across Punjab.
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Wasim further said that six of the department’s 50 people were assigned to the cell to expedite the resolution of complaints.
According to data provided on the agency’s website, of the 171,600 cases reported to the agency, 21.6% were reported by women.
Lahore took the lead in the number of digital crime reports, accounting for 18% of the total cases.
Financial fraud remained the most reported cybercrime according to statistics available on the agency’s web portal.
