The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has intensified its nationwide crackdown against illegal SIM issuance, conducting a major enforcement operation on a Ufone franchisee in Peshawar.
The raid, carried out on 12th December 2025, was executed by the PTA Zonal Office Peshawar in collaboration with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA).
According to official details, the operation was initiated after a female citizen from Par Hoti, Mardan, reported that her CNIC was fraudulently used to activate unauthorized SIM cards. Acting on the complaint, PTA and NCCIA launched a focused investigation that led to the identification of a Ufone franchisee involved in unlawful SIM registrations.
During the raid, authorities seized two mobile phones, a laptop, and a Biometric Verification System (BVS) device used in the illegal issuance of SIMs. Officials confirmed that two individuals, including the franchise owner, were arrested at the scene and handed over to the investigation agency for further legal action.
PTA emphasized that the raid is part of its ongoing efforts to secure Pakistan’s digital ecosystem by ensuring strict compliance with the Multi-Finger Biometric Verification System (MBVS). The authority warned that any attempt to bypass or manipulate biometric systems will result in strict penalties, including arrests, franchise termination, and legal prosecution.
The telecommunication regulator reaffirmed its commitment to curbing SIM-related fraud, which has direct links to various forms of cybercrime, financial scams, and identity theft. PTA highlighted that illegal SIM issuance not only violates national regulations but also poses a serious threat to public safety and national security.
To safeguard citizens from such incidents, PTA urged the public to stay vigilant and promptly report any suspicious or unauthorized SIM activity. Complaints can be submitted through PTA’s official platforms, including the Toll-Free Helpline 0800-55055 or the Online Complaint Portal at complaint.pta.gov.pk.
The recent enforcement action sends a strong message to telecom operators, franchise owners, and retailers across the country: any involvement in illegal SIM issuance will be met with swift and decisive action. PTA continues to work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure transparent, secure, and lawful SIM registration processes nationwide.