The illegal issuance of SIM cards in five cities. The raids were performed on franchises located in Rawalpindi, Sargodha, Kot Momin, Kohat. And Hangu, with zonal offices based in Lahore, Faisalabad, and Peshawar also conducting operations. PTA and FIA Crack Down on Illegal SIM Issuance.
Details of the Crackdown
The PTA reported that some franchises illegally issued SIM cards used in criminal activities like fraud and identity theft. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) assisted in the operation. Through this process, four laptops, one PC, twelve biometric verification devices, active SIMs, mobile phones, hard disks, photocopies of CINICs, Afghan passports, copies of Proof of Registration (POR) cards. And other things were seized from those areas.
Seizures and Arrests
PTA reports show that 15 persons working at these franchises were picked up. First Information Reports (FIRs) registered by FIA are based on complaints about illegal issuance of SIM cards. We initiated this action due to the misuse of SIM cards and their involvement in illicit activities.
Impact and Response
The drive aims to eliminate any misuse of SIM Cards for criminal purposes or abuse for fraud or identity theft, among other unlawful uses. By targeting franchises that facilitate the illegal issuance of SIM Cards, the two bodies seek to curb their exploitation for fraudulent cases and identity theft, among other unlawful uses.
Ongoing Efforts
PTA has insisted on its resolve to deal with illegal SIM card issuance while ensuring the observance of telecom regulations. Authorities still strive to track down such entities and take appropriate measures against them. By teaming up with FIA over these matters, PTA is essentially following a broader approach towards enhancing the security level and preventing misuse of telecommunication infrastructure.
The recent crackdown indicates that Pakistan is taking the issue of illegal SIM issuance very seriously. The arrests and seizures made during this operation have demonstrated the continued efforts to secure. And maintain the integrity of the telecommunications industry. This joint action by the PTA and FIA testifies to their determination to combat any illegal practices and protect the public interest.
