NA debates cyber fraud after speaker impersonated

The growing threat of online fraud took centre stage in the National Assembly on Friday as Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq disclosed that his voice had been impersonated to fraudulently seek money from citizens, prompting assurances from the government that action and legislation were underway to counter organised digital crime.

The session, presided over by Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, also saw the suspension of multiple lawmakers over non-submission of asset declarations and a packed legislative agenda, alongside moments of levity on the floor of the House.

During the sitting, lawmakers discussed online fraud, legislation, PIA privatisation, parliamentary conduct and various civic issues.

While debate on online fraud was underway, 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 on trust, had called to verify the request, after which the matter was referred to the relevant standing committee.

Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said the activity was part of an organised mafia involved in blackmailing citizens, adding that "rent-a-account" 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, meaningful results would take time.

Meanwhile, legislative business continued during the session as questions were also raised regarding the legal status of PIA's privatisation.

Responding to the concerns, the federal finance minister told the House that the privatisation process had been completed in accordance with all legal requirements and that the auction had been conducted in a fully transparent manner.

He said 75 per cent shares worth Rs135 billion had been sold, of which Rs10 billion would go to the government, while Rs125 billion would be reinvested into PIA.

During the sitting, the speaker announced the suspension of 32 members for failing to submit mandatory declarations, making it clear that suspended members were not permitted to sit in the House and directing any such members present to leave the chamber.

The session also saw lighter moments when the speaker praised the preparedness of Minister of State Talal Chaudhry, prompting Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar to jokingly suggest having a statue made of him, eliciting laughter across the House.

The NA session was later adjourned until 5pm on Monday.