Scam Call Center Busted in Islamabad, 65 Suspects Arrested

In a shocking development, a large-scale scam call center was busted in Islamabad’s G-10 sector after cybercrime authorities launched a surprise raid. The operation led to the arrest of 65 suspects, including five foreign nationals, accused of defrauding citizens through fake online earning schemes and investment platforms.

The raid uncovered a well-structured criminal network using social media apps, cryptocurrency channels, and fake finance platforms to scam unsuspecting victims in both local and international markets.

The Raid: How Authorities Exposed the Fraud

Acting on intelligence reports, Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cybercrime Wing raided the premises of what appeared to be a legitimate call center. Inside, officials found an elaborate setup with computers, smartphones, and digital devices used to lure and defraud victims.

The suspects reportedly posed as representatives of online trading companies and earning platforms. They targeted people through Facebook, WhatsApp, and Telegram, promising quick profits or remote job opportunities.

Once the victims were convinced, they were tricked into transferring funds via digital wallets, online banking channels, or cryptocurrency platforms.

How the Scam Worked: A Professional Setup

Investigations revealed that the group operated in a highly organized structure, with specific roles assigned to different members:

• Receptionists & Call Agents – managed initial communication with potential victims via Telegram and WhatsApp.
  

• Fake Finance Managers – handled payment collection and instructed victims on money transfers.
  

• IT Support Staff – maintained digital infrastructure, social media accounts, and communication apps.
  

• International Agents – assisted in laundering funds abroad, mostly through cryptocurrency exchanges.
  

According to officials, this setup allowed the gang to operate smoothly and escape detection for months, possibly even years.

Chaos After the Raid: Looting Raises Security Concerns

What happened after the raid shocked many. As the suspects were taken into custody, local residents stormed the building and looted the leftover office equipment. Videos circulating on social media showed people carrying away laptops, monitors, printers, and other devices from the crime scene.

This post-raid looting raised serious concerns about evidence protection and law enforcement protocols, as crucial digital records may have been lost or destroyed in the chaos.

Bribery and Cover-Ups: How the Scam Operated in Plain Sight

Initial reports suggest that the fake call center was operating under the cover of a registered business. Investigators are probing allegations that the operators paid bribes to local police officials to continue their activities unnoticed.

Authorities are also looking into possible involvement of:

• Landlords, who allegedly rented out the premises without proper verification.
  

• Security personnel, who may have had knowledge of the illegal operations but chose to ignore them.
  

This revelation highlights the deep-rooted issue of corruption that enables cybercriminals to thrive in Pakistan.

A Part of Pakistan’s Wider Cybercrime Crackdown

The Islamabad raid is not an isolated incident. In recent months, authorities have intensified their crackdown on digital fraud networks, exposing fraudulent investment apps and illegal call centers targeting citizens.

Cybercrime officials stressed that this bust is part of a broader national effort to dismantle organized scam operations and restore public confidence in digital platforms.

Voices from the Authorities

An FIA Cybercrime spokesperson stated:

“This operation is a significant step in our fight against online fraud. These gangs use sophisticated methods to deceive people, but we are committed to exposing and eliminating such criminal networks.”

Officials further emphasized the need for citizens to stay alert and avoid sharing personal or financial details with unverified sources.

Public Advisory: How to Stay Safe from Online Scams

Authorities have urged the public to take preventive measures against online scams:

• Verify sources: Always confirm whether an investment platform or job opportunity is genuine.
  

• Avoid quick-profit schemes: Be cautious of offers promising “guaranteed returns” or “instant income.”
  

• Secure your information: Never share bank details, CNIC copies, or passwords with untrusted parties.
  

• Report suspicious activity: Victims or potential targets should report scams through FIA’s cybercrime reporting portal or helpline.
  

International Angle: Links to Global Cybercrime

Investigators have also found evidence of links between the Islamabad call center and international crime networks. The group allegedly laundered millions through cryptocurrency exchanges and overseas contacts, making the case even more complex.

This reinforces warnings from cybersecurity experts that Pakistan is becoming a hub for digital fraud operations, many of which are tied to transnational syndicates.

What Happens Next?

The investigation is ongoing, with further arrests expected as authorities trace the money trail and identify additional accomplices. Officials have hinted at possible legal action against facilitators, including landlords, corrupt officials, and financial agents linked to the scam.

For now, the raid stands as one of the biggest cybercrime crackdowns in recent years, marking a strong step forward in Pakistan’s fight against digital fraud.

Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for Digital Security

The busting of this fake call center in Islamabad serves as both a victory and a warning. While authorities successfully dismantled a large-scale fraud operation, the looting aftermath, bribery allegations, and international links expose just how deep and dangerous cybercrime networks have become.

As Pakistan’s economy continues to digitize, the risk of scams will only grow. Stronger cybersecurity laws, strict enforcement, and public awareness are essential to protect citizens from falling prey to such frauds.

For now, the message is clear: stay vigilant, question offers that seem too good to be true, and report suspicious activities to prevent scams before they spread further.