FIA arrests 8 over fake photos of CM Punjab

The suspects, linked to political party, found to have tampered with images of both Maryam Nawaz, President of the UAE

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The Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) Cyber Crime Circle has arrested eight individuals involved in sharing fake images of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.

The suspects, linked to a specific political party, were found to have tampered with images of both Maryam Nawaz and the President of the UAE.

In a press conference in Lahore, Additional Director of FIA's Cyber Crime Circle, Sarfraz Chaudhry, and Assistant Director Zawar Hussain provided details of the investigation.

They confirmed the formation of a joint task force to take action against those responsible for sharing the doctored images on social media platforms, including those originating from the US and other countries.

"We have filed eight cases in connection with this matter, and so far, all eight suspects named in the cases have been arrested," said Sarfraz Chaudhry. The suspects' mobile phones revealed posts from Shahbaz Gill and Imran Riaz Khan, indicating they had been sharing content from these political figures.

Chaudhry condemned the actions of the arrested individuals, stating that their disregard for social media values and respect for women was concerning. He added that the FIA had written to foreign countries to obtain server details and would not spare anyone involved in this act.

The joint task force has already presented three suspects to the media. Chaudhry also mentioned that the materials sent by Shahbaz Gill were found on the suspects' devices, and that Imran Riaz Khan had also used these individuals to distribute his content.

"This task is a nationwide effort, with joint investigation teams working across all provinces," Chaudhry continued. "The suspects were using fake IDs on Facebook to spread the false content."

The FIA is also looking into additional data on the suspects, who may be brought in from abroad. "Their passports and ID cards will be blocked, and once they are declared fugitives, we will seek assistance from Interpol," Chaudhry said. "We will thwart any anti-national conspiracy."

In addition to the investigation into the fake images, the FIA is addressing other cybercrime cases, including financial fraud. "We have recovered millions of rupees this year, and international fake numbers are being sold," Chaudhry said.