National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency has conducted a major raid in Karachi’s Gulzar-e-Hijri area, targeting an alleged illegal call centre involved in online financial fraud and detaining more than 50 suspects for questioning.

According to media reports, the call centre was allegedly operated by an individual identified as “Hani,” who is accused of running sophisticated cyber fraud schemes through fake banking communications and mobile applications.

During the operation, NCCIA officials seized laptops, digital devices, and other technical equipment believed to have been used in the alleged scam network.

Investigators said the suspects allegedly posed as bank representatives and targeted overseas Pakistanis and foreign nationals through fraudulent phone calls and online communication channels.

Victims were reportedly tricked into sharing sensitive banking information, including account credentials and verification details, which were later used to withdraw funds from their accounts.

Officials confirmed that all detained individuals were shifted to NCCIA offices for interrogation and forensic investigation. Authorities are also examining confiscated digital devices to determine the scale of the fraud operation, possible international connections, and related financial transactions.

The raid is part of a wider nationwide crackdown on cybercrime and illegal call centres operating across Pakistan.

In recent weeks, NCCIA has carried out several operations in Karachi against networks accused of impersonating banks, financial institutions, and debt settlement agencies to scam foreign citizens.

Officials said many such fraud networks rely on spoofing software, fake mobile applications, and social engineering techniques to steal sensitive information such as CVV codes, social security numbers, dates of birth, and online banking credentials.

Authorities believe the stolen information may have been used for unauthorized financial transactions and money laundering activities.

The NCCIA, established in 2024 as Pakistan’s dedicated cybercrime investigation agency, has expanded its operations against online fraud and transnational cybercrime networks in recent months.

Officials added that formal legal proceedings against the suspects will begin after completion of technical and forensic investigations.