Authorities recover pre-activated SIM cards as investigation expands into alleged nationwide distribution network
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), in collaboration with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), has intensified its PTA illegal SIM crackdown, leading to the seizure of 329 illegally activated SIM cards and the arrest of a woman in Sahiwal.
According to the PTA, the operation was conducted by its Lahore Zonal Office after intelligence reports indicated the large-scale sale of illegally activated SIMs. Acting on the regulator’s complaint, NCCIA officials apprehended a female suspect allegedly involved in the bulk trading and distribution of pre-activated SIM cards.
329 Illegal SIMs Recovered
During the raid, authorities recovered a total of 329 illegally activated SIMs, comprising:
176 Jazz SIMs
83 Ufone SIMs
66 Zong SIMs
4 Telenor SIMs
Preliminary investigations indicated that the SIM cards were allegedly being sold in bulk and distributed to multiple cities across Pakistan.
Law enforcement agencies have registered a First Information Report (FIR), while further investigations are underway to identify other individuals linked to the alleged network.
PTA Intensifies Illegal SIM Crackdown
The PTA said the latest operation forms part of its ongoing PTA illegal SIM crackdown aimed at preventing the unlawful issuance of SIM cards and stopping the misuse of the Multi-Finger Biometric Verification System (MBVS).
The regulator reiterated its commitment to protecting Pakistan’s digital ecosystem by working closely with law enforcement agencies to dismantle networks involved in illegal SIM activation and trafficking.
Public Advised to Verify Registered SIMs
The PTA urged mobile users to regularly verify the number of SIM cards registered against their Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC) and immediately report any unauthorised or suspicious SIMs.
Citizens can report unauthorised SIMs through the PTA’s toll-free helpline 0800-55055 or by submitting complaints through the authority’s official online complaint portal.
The authority has repeatedly warned that illegally activated SIM cards can be exploited for criminal activities, financial fraud and cybercrime, making strict enforcement essential for national security and public safety.