Islamabad: — In a major enforcement action targeting the illegal tampering of mobile phone IMEIs and sale of cloned/patched devices, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Zonal Office Abbottabad in close collaboration with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) Abbottabad, successfully executed raid at key locations involved in illicit activities.
The operations were conducted at a mobile phone repair shops near Fowara Masjid Mochi Bazaar, Haripur and Main GT Road Haripur. These coordinated efforts led to the confiscation of Mobiles phones, desktop PCs, Laptops, USB Devices and DVR. Three individuals were arrested on-site and have been taken into custody by NCCIA Abbottabad for further legal proceedings.
PTA continues to pursue a zero-tolerance policy against the illegal trade and modification of mobile device identifiers. IMEI tampering and circulation of cloned phones present significant risks to national security and public safety, facilitating criminal anonymity and enabling serious offenses such as cybercrimes, financial fraud, abductions and other unlawful activities.
The PTA remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of mobile communication systems in Pakistan. Such illicit activities not only undermine user trust but also threaten the broader digital ecosystem.
PTA urges members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to mobile phone cloning or tampering. Regulatory measures are being reinforced and those found guilty of such offenses will face stringent legal consequences.
This enforcement action highlights the ongoing collaborative efforts of PTA and NCCIA to ensure the lawful and secure use of telecommunication services across Pakistan.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
