Fake calls in Speaker’s voice used to extort money; authorities warn of organized online mafia
ISLAMABAD – Speaker of the National Assembly, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, revealed on Monday that fraudsters have impersonated his voice to extort money from unsuspecting citizens. The disclosure came during a National Assembly session chaired by Sadiq, where discussions ranged from online fraud to PIA privatization and legislative matters.
According to Sadiq, one person, acting on trust, confirmed the fraudulent calls, which have now been referred to the relevant parliamentary committee for investigation. He warned that this organized online mafia is using sophisticated “rent-a-account” schemes to blackmail citizens.
Minister of State for Interior, Talal Chaudhry, informed the house that the National Cyber Crime Investigation Authority (NCCIA) is actively working to curb such fraud. The authority has deployed 523 officials across 23 police stations nationwide. While improvements are underway, Chaudhry emphasized that full efficiency will take time.
During the session, PIA’s privatization was also discussed. Federal Finance Minister stated that 75% of PIA shares, totaling PKR 135 billion, have been sold transparently, with PKR 10 billion going to the government and PKR 125 billion reinvested in the airline for operational improvements.
The Speaker further announced the suspension of 32 National Assembly members who failed to submit their mandatory declarations. Suspended members will not be allowed to sit in the Assembly until compliance.
Adding lighter moments to the session, Sadiq praised Talal Chaudhry for his preparedness, prompting Federal Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar to jokingly suggest commissioning a statue in his honor, eliciting laughter across the Assembly. The session was later adjourned until 5 pm on Monday.
This revelation highlights the growing threat of online fraud in Pakistan and the need for stronger cybersecurity measures to protect citizens from organized cybercriminal networks.
