Man held for posing as senior officials to defraud citizens

LAHORE:

The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has arrested a man allegedly involved in impersonating government institutions and senior officials to defraud people by promising official favours and appointments in exchange for money.

A spokesman for NCCIA said the Lahore unit took action on the special directions of Director NCCIA Punjab Muhammad Ali Waseem. The suspect, identified as Faiz Ali Syed, was arrested in connection with an FIR.

The spokesperson said the suspect allegedly contacted officials of government and private institutions through multiple WhatsApp numbers while falsely claiming affiliation with prestigious state institutions.

He allegedly offered to facilitate official work and arrange appointments or other services in government departments in return for money.

During the operation, investigators reportedly found the suspect using a private vehicle fitted with a fake green registration plate to create an impression of official status. He had also allegedly arranged for another person to wear a police uniform to reinforce the deception.

The NCCIA recovered three mobile phones from the suspect.

A preliminary examination reportedly revealed WhatsApp conversations, official-looking documents and other digital material allegedly linked to fraudulent activities.

Investigators said one of the WhatsApp accounts carried the label "Apex Court", while conversations indicated that the suspect had contacted officials while falsely claiming affiliation with an important state institution.