The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) arrested 28 individuals across Punjab, including in Lahore, Faisalabad, and Multan, for alleged involvement in organised online fraud, using fake identities and fraudulent schemes to deceive citizens.

The operation, led by NCCIA Punjab Director M Ali Wasim, resulted in the seizure of 24 mobile phones and a laptop, which are undergoing forensic examination.

In Lahore, 18 suspects were arrested for allegedly using fake identities including relatives, visa agents, government officials and Punjab Safe Cities Authority personnel to defraud victims. In one case, imposters allegedly posing as a relative and a visa agent defrauded a victim of Rs 25.86 million.

In Faisalabad, three suspects were arrested for allegedly conducting online trading fraud, causing a reported loss of Rs 54.6 million.

While in Multan, seven suspects were arrested who allegedly impersonated bank employees and individuals residing in Britain. They are accused of soliciting money under false pretenses, such as prize money, customs clearance, taxes, and visa renewals