The Lahore High Court (LHC) on October 1 sought detailed records on the establishment and functioning of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) during a contempt petition over delays in processing a citizen’s application.

Chief Justice Aalia Neelum heard the petition filed by Muhammad Ismail, who alleged that the NCCIA failed to comply with a 2024 court order directing authorities to decide his application within 30 days. Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Director General Dr Usman Anwar appeared before the court and said the application concerned the NCCIA, which was established after the application was filed.

The chief justice expressed concern over delays in resolving citizens’ complaints. Anwar said the NCCIA initially operated without a dedicated building but had since computerised its records to improve the handling of pending applications.

The court was assured that Ismail’s complaint would be processed once he appeared before the NCCIA and that he would not be pressured to withdraw his petition.

The FIA DG was directed to submit a report detailing the NCCIA’s exact date of establishment, its directors and their tenures, and all pending inquiries at the next hearing on October 5.